Bob: A very busy day at the office, but there was no more snow to deal with either. Accounting work is caught up and I received good news on 3 apartments. Looks like all 3 will be ours once we get the paperwork completed. I think I am going to have to buy some furniture though. I don't have any twin size mattresses and I need a dozen I think. Will need some box springs too and maybe a few bed frames. The hard part will be delivering everything as we are getting apartments in several zones.
The new CES couple will be here tomorrow. I talked to them late this afternoon and they were almost in Cleveland. He said they were staying all night in Erie. Told him that would be between 4 and 5 hours depending on how much time it takes to get their visas.
As we were running late tonight we stopped at Mimis Fish and Chips on South Main Street in Brampton. The place inside leaves a lot to be desired as far as looks, but the fish wasn't bad. Maybe we were just so hungry we didn't care, but we did enjoy it. Kind of a one man operation as he took the order, cooked it and served it.
Hope everyone has had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It was a good day. I am pretty much caught up and could use a full day tomorrow but it won't happen. I am going with the Cannon's to the temple, the 11:00 session, and then coming back to the office to meet the Budgett's. We will take them to their new apartment and help them move in and show them where to do wash, etc. Then tomorrow night we have been invited to dinner and a "murder mystery" by one of the temple couples. I've always wanted to do that so I'm excited! We are supposed to dress up "Italian" style and I just borrowed two dresses to see if they will help me look the part. We are also having an Italian dinner and we are bringing caesar salad. It will be fun, I'm sure. I hope all of you will be enjoying your New Year in a wonderful way, too.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 30 December 2015
Tuesday 29 December 2015
December 29, 2015
Bonnie: We had a safe trip back to the apartment, and by 2:00 we were on our way to the office. Things were not too bad. In fact, I was impressed with what Sister Cannon had done. It makes me feel good that I can leave and not worry much. Of course, it is different with Bob. He is pretty much indispensable. The Erickson's will leave early in the morning for southern California to witness the sealing of adopted twins into the family of their son and daughter-in-law. It will be a special event I am sure. I hope that between Sister Cannon and myself we can cover what she does in the office! Elder Erickson is always on call, unfortunately. There seem to be problems with vehicles fairly often!
I am thankful for the Christmas break we had. I have special memories of the things that happened and the feelings of love in our families. How blessed we are to know that one day we can all be together as a family! Let's all enjoy our families this season and always!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Brampton had a snow storm last night. When we got back there was snow everywhere. The temperature is above freezing so it isn't going to last, but looks like they got several inches last night.
As Bonnie said the trip was good. We enjoyed seeing Chris, Misty and Christian and their families. It was also good to see some other relatives at Eddie's memorial service.
But now that we are back there is work to do. The accounting won't take too long to get caught up on, but the apartments will take some time. We are trying to open new ones in Midland, Timmins, Temiskaming, Tilsonburg, Oshawa, Sarnia, another senior apartment, and another one that I can't think of right now. Thought I had it done when I left, but the Board of Directors of the Condo Association wants a statement that the tenants will be there for at least a year. Of course, we can't do that as the missionaries will undoubtedly move before a year. So it looks like we will start over on that one. And one of our landlords left me a message while I was gone that since we had an extra missionary staying at the apartment he wanted another $400 rent per month. Have to check that out tomorrow witht the President.
Well I am going to get ready for bed. Will have to get up in the morning and walk. Haven't done that in a week, so it will probably be a little rough rolling out of bed at 5:45. I think the earliest we have gotten up is 7:00 the last 6 days. Oh to be retired again!! Love to all, and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I am thankful for the Christmas break we had. I have special memories of the things that happened and the feelings of love in our families. How blessed we are to know that one day we can all be together as a family! Let's all enjoy our families this season and always!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Brampton had a snow storm last night. When we got back there was snow everywhere. The temperature is above freezing so it isn't going to last, but looks like they got several inches last night.
As Bonnie said the trip was good. We enjoyed seeing Chris, Misty and Christian and their families. It was also good to see some other relatives at Eddie's memorial service.
But now that we are back there is work to do. The accounting won't take too long to get caught up on, but the apartments will take some time. We are trying to open new ones in Midland, Timmins, Temiskaming, Tilsonburg, Oshawa, Sarnia, another senior apartment, and another one that I can't think of right now. Thought I had it done when I left, but the Board of Directors of the Condo Association wants a statement that the tenants will be there for at least a year. Of course, we can't do that as the missionaries will undoubtedly move before a year. So it looks like we will start over on that one. And one of our landlords left me a message while I was gone that since we had an extra missionary staying at the apartment he wanted another $400 rent per month. Have to check that out tomorrow witht the President.
Well I am going to get ready for bed. Will have to get up in the morning and walk. Haven't done that in a week, so it will probably be a little rough rolling out of bed at 5:45. I think the earliest we have gotten up is 7:00 the last 6 days. Oh to be retired again!! Love to all, and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 28 December 2015
December 28, 2015
Bob: Bonnie and I went the credit union the first thing this morning. Got that all taken care of without any problem. Then we went to Williams Office Supply and picked up some folders that I was having trouble finding in Canada. Then we met Christian, Michelle and the boys and took the boys for a tour of New Martinsville. They got to see a lot of the places their dad used to frequent.
The graveside service went really well. There was a nice group there even though the weather was pretty cool. At least it didn't rain any. I think brother was looking down and smiling on us.
Afterwards most everyone went to the Court Restaurant and enjoyed their buffet. All of Eddie's children were there and I think most of his grandchildren were there. Everything broke up about 4:00.
We finally made it to Erie, PA at about 8:00. It rained on us most of the way. The rain was pretty heavy at times. Once we checked in we went to the Home Depot, Target and Walmart. I found the things at Home Depot I have been looking for in Canada and couldn't find. The wind was blowing the rain so hard when we went from the car to the store the right side of my jacket was soaked. We finally got everything we were looking for and made it back to the room at about 10. The wind is continuing to howl outside our window.
We are planning on going to the office tomorrow afternoon once we get back. Google Maps says it will take 2:57 without traffic. We'll see how long it takes to cross the border this time. It took forever on our way to the states on Wednesday.
Well it's time for us to get ready for bed. Hope everyone has had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add except that there was a wonderful, loving feeling at the Memorial Service as well as the lunch at Quinet's. I got to spend time talking to Renee, Bob's other sister-in-law. Larry was also there and it was nice to see him. We really enjoyed being with Christian and Michelle and the boys, too. And, I will be getting the famous recipe for turkey stuffing from Bob's neice which makes him happy!
The other thing I have enjoyed today is shopping in the states! The weather was bad but I enjoyed the selection and the prices and the "free" shopping carts! We picked up lots of stuff at better prices than we get in Canada.
Tomorrow, it's back to the mission office. What a nice break we have had. Thank you for a wonderful Christmas, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
The graveside service went really well. There was a nice group there even though the weather was pretty cool. At least it didn't rain any. I think brother was looking down and smiling on us.
Afterwards most everyone went to the Court Restaurant and enjoyed their buffet. All of Eddie's children were there and I think most of his grandchildren were there. Everything broke up about 4:00.
We finally made it to Erie, PA at about 8:00. It rained on us most of the way. The rain was pretty heavy at times. Once we checked in we went to the Home Depot, Target and Walmart. I found the things at Home Depot I have been looking for in Canada and couldn't find. The wind was blowing the rain so hard when we went from the car to the store the right side of my jacket was soaked. We finally got everything we were looking for and made it back to the room at about 10. The wind is continuing to howl outside our window.
We are planning on going to the office tomorrow afternoon once we get back. Google Maps says it will take 2:57 without traffic. We'll see how long it takes to cross the border this time. It took forever on our way to the states on Wednesday.
Well it's time for us to get ready for bed. Hope everyone has had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add except that there was a wonderful, loving feeling at the Memorial Service as well as the lunch at Quinet's. I got to spend time talking to Renee, Bob's other sister-in-law. Larry was also there and it was nice to see him. We really enjoyed being with Christian and Michelle and the boys, too. And, I will be getting the famous recipe for turkey stuffing from Bob's neice which makes him happy!
The other thing I have enjoyed today is shopping in the states! The weather was bad but I enjoyed the selection and the prices and the "free" shopping carts! We picked up lots of stuff at better prices than we get in Canada.
Tomorrow, it's back to the mission office. What a nice break we have had. Thank you for a wonderful Christmas, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 27 December 2015
Dec 26 & 27, 2015
Bonnie: Yesterday was a fun day just being with family. Part way through the day Dan and Misty and family came by to spend time with us. The adults went to see Suzy's renovated house. and that was followed with pizza and fresh vegetables and home-made humis. We played games and talked. Then we headed for Ellis'. We left Sarah to spend time with Daphne and brought Evie home to spend time with Katie. We couldn't go to bed, though, without a game of Mexican Train which Ammon had received for Christmas. (Ammon won 3 of 4 hands.)
This morning we attended church and left after Sacrament Meeting for West Virginia, (with a short stop to pick up my I-Pad). We stopped first to visit Lorraine and her family and then checked in to our motel in New Martinsville. We had just enough time to visit with Bob's friend, Ron Wilson, who is in a nursing home and Alexis Haught. They were totally surprised to see us. We wanted to see Sally Briggs but she wasn't home.
So tomorrow will be more errands in the morning and the Memorial Service at 1:00. We'll see Christian and Michelle and the boys, too! It will be a very good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: There was a scripture shared in a sacrament meeting talk today that both bonnie and I enjoyed. It is D&C 59:23. It tells about two rewards for doing righteous works: peace in this life and eternal life in the life to come. Those are great blessings!
Not too much to add as Bonnie has about covered it all. The drive from Maryland to West Virginia via route 68 is a beautiful drive. We got rained on some, but the mountains had fog covering them part of the time and it was a stunning view.
It was good to visit with Lorraine, Jerry/Joyce and their family. Lorraine's manufactured home is sitting behind Jerry's house awaiting the electric company to come and put in the service. They need to set a pole out by route 20, run the service line to the meter and then hook up the service to the home. They are laying blocks under it right now while they are waiting for the electric. Driving down Route 20 from Clarksburg to their place brought back a lot of memories. But I don't miss driving on the crooked roads.
We are staying in the new Holiday Inn Express built in the plaza at the north end of New Martinsville. It's the first time we have seen it as it wasn't here the last time we were in New
Martinsville. Well we had better get to bed as we need to get up and take care of a few things before the service tomorrow. It will be a grave-side service that won't take very long. Then everyone is going to Quinet's for a meal. We leave for Erie, Pa. once the meal is over.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
This morning we attended church and left after Sacrament Meeting for West Virginia, (with a short stop to pick up my I-Pad). We stopped first to visit Lorraine and her family and then checked in to our motel in New Martinsville. We had just enough time to visit with Bob's friend, Ron Wilson, who is in a nursing home and Alexis Haught. They were totally surprised to see us. We wanted to see Sally Briggs but she wasn't home.
So tomorrow will be more errands in the morning and the Memorial Service at 1:00. We'll see Christian and Michelle and the boys, too! It will be a very good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: There was a scripture shared in a sacrament meeting talk today that both bonnie and I enjoyed. It is D&C 59:23. It tells about two rewards for doing righteous works: peace in this life and eternal life in the life to come. Those are great blessings!
Not too much to add as Bonnie has about covered it all. The drive from Maryland to West Virginia via route 68 is a beautiful drive. We got rained on some, but the mountains had fog covering them part of the time and it was a stunning view.
It was good to visit with Lorraine, Jerry/Joyce and their family. Lorraine's manufactured home is sitting behind Jerry's house awaiting the electric company to come and put in the service. They need to set a pole out by route 20, run the service line to the meter and then hook up the service to the home. They are laying blocks under it right now while they are waiting for the electric. Driving down Route 20 from Clarksburg to their place brought back a lot of memories. But I don't miss driving on the crooked roads.
We are staying in the new Holiday Inn Express built in the plaza at the north end of New Martinsville. It's the first time we have seen it as it wasn't here the last time we were in New
Martinsville. Well we had better get to bed as we need to get up and take care of a few things before the service tomorrow. It will be a grave-side service that won't take very long. Then everyone is going to Quinet's for a meal. We leave for Erie, Pa. once the meal is over.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Friday 25 December 2015
December 25, 2015
Bonnie: I'm sitting at Chris' dining room table waiting to skype with Scott and Jenny. We've just had a wonderful conversation with Shannan and family. They had a great Christmas with 4' of snow in their back yard! It has been fun for all of them! We have finished a delicious Christmas dinner thanks to Chris and Suzy.
We just finished skyping with Scott and Jenny. They looked so good! Thea is really growing up. I feel like I hardly know her. And Nolan is as cute as ever. The dishes are done and we'll be playing some games in a few minutes. I hope we can spend time with Lori and Scott and family and that I can see Lucas, my sweet newest grandson. And I hope to skype with Jeff and Islena as well and their boys. How I miss all of my grandchildren! It's been a wonderful day. Love to all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Did not get up till about 8 today which is amazing considering it is Christmas and there were 5 children in the house. But we finally made it up and had an enjoyable time watching the kids open their gifts. We then had a breakfast of the favorite Danish dish, abelskiver, Afterwards we packed up and headed for Chris and Suzy'. We left about 12:40 and got to Chris' at 2:00. It has been a light drizzle most of the day. Had a great Christmas dinner with ham, potato casserole, bean salad, fruit salad and beets mixed in sour cream.
After we rested for a while we played a game of 'Ticket to Ride-Europe'. With beginners luck I was able to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Evie tried to play dirty and block everyone so she ended up in last place. We told her that served her right.
We never did hear from Scott and Lori after Bonnie texted them to call. Problem was she texted on a phone that didn't have a phone plan!! Thus no text was ever sent. She is my resident IT guru. But we found the problem and resent a text and got an answer. Better late than never.
We are busy now trying to think of something to do tomorrow with everyone.
Time to go to bed. Hope everyone had an memorable Christmas. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We just finished skyping with Scott and Jenny. They looked so good! Thea is really growing up. I feel like I hardly know her. And Nolan is as cute as ever. The dishes are done and we'll be playing some games in a few minutes. I hope we can spend time with Lori and Scott and family and that I can see Lucas, my sweet newest grandson. And I hope to skype with Jeff and Islena as well and their boys. How I miss all of my grandchildren! It's been a wonderful day. Love to all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Did not get up till about 8 today which is amazing considering it is Christmas and there were 5 children in the house. But we finally made it up and had an enjoyable time watching the kids open their gifts. We then had a breakfast of the favorite Danish dish, abelskiver, Afterwards we packed up and headed for Chris and Suzy'. We left about 12:40 and got to Chris' at 2:00. It has been a light drizzle most of the day. Had a great Christmas dinner with ham, potato casserole, bean salad, fruit salad and beets mixed in sour cream.
After we rested for a while we played a game of 'Ticket to Ride-Europe'. With beginners luck I was able to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Evie tried to play dirty and block everyone so she ended up in last place. We told her that served her right.
We never did hear from Scott and Lori after Bonnie texted them to call. Problem was she texted on a phone that didn't have a phone plan!! Thus no text was ever sent. She is my resident IT guru. But we found the problem and resent a text and got an answer. Better late than never.
We are busy now trying to think of something to do tomorrow with everyone.
Time to go to bed. Hope everyone had an memorable Christmas. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Thursday 24 December 2015
December 24, 2015
Bob: Christmas eve! I can hardly believe 2015 is almost gone. We made it to Misty's at 1:00. We didn't get up till 9 and left the motel at 10:30. We are not early risers on our days off. Travel was all interstate today except for the last couple of miles. It has been relaxing since we got here. Dan, Michael, Ammon and I took our cars to get them washed and pick up some items at the grocery store. It took quite a while as the first car wash we went to was closed down.
Had a great ham dinner and then we read the story of the Savior's birth from the scriptures with everyone acting out one of the characters, including the donkey (the most requested part).
Things are starting to wind down and kids are going to bed. There is a lot of anticipation for Santa Claus and what he might bring.
Going to get ready for bed myself. Love to all, Merry Christmas, and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: What a fun day! When we got to Misty's we decorated cookies first thing. And then, Katie, Ammon, Sarah and Serenity went delivering them with Misty and I. Katie drove the van and she did a very good job. We made three deliveries and got home after 5:00. We had to begin cooking right away. We had ham and asparagas and some delicious bread for dinner. After cleaning up from that, Dan read the Christmas story from the scriptures while the rest of us acted out the parts. Serenity made the cutest Mary ever! And Michael was a very good angel. Then, each of the children was given one present to open up from Mom and Dad. That was fun to watch. We then had dessert--Tres Leches or three milks, a Spanish dessert they bought at Costco. It was yummy. Now, the cookies are out for Santa and the kids are in bed--well, kind of. There is lots of exitement tonight and I'll be surprised if they go to sleep any time soon, I just spoke to Chris and we will be to their house by 3:00 latest tomorrow, maybe sooner depending on when we leave Misty's. It's been a wonderful Christmas Eve!
I hope all of you are enjoying a special Christmas Eve tonight as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Had a great ham dinner and then we read the story of the Savior's birth from the scriptures with everyone acting out one of the characters, including the donkey (the most requested part).
Things are starting to wind down and kids are going to bed. There is a lot of anticipation for Santa Claus and what he might bring.
Going to get ready for bed myself. Love to all, Merry Christmas, and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: What a fun day! When we got to Misty's we decorated cookies first thing. And then, Katie, Ammon, Sarah and Serenity went delivering them with Misty and I. Katie drove the van and she did a very good job. We made three deliveries and got home after 5:00. We had to begin cooking right away. We had ham and asparagas and some delicious bread for dinner. After cleaning up from that, Dan read the Christmas story from the scriptures while the rest of us acted out the parts. Serenity made the cutest Mary ever! And Michael was a very good angel. Then, each of the children was given one present to open up from Mom and Dad. That was fun to watch. We then had dessert--Tres Leches or three milks, a Spanish dessert they bought at Costco. It was yummy. Now, the cookies are out for Santa and the kids are in bed--well, kind of. There is lots of exitement tonight and I'll be surprised if they go to sleep any time soon, I just spoke to Chris and we will be to their house by 3:00 latest tomorrow, maybe sooner depending on when we leave Misty's. It's been a wonderful Christmas Eve!
I hope all of you are enjoying a special Christmas Eve tonight as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 23 December 2015
December 23, 2015
Bonnie: Well, we are finally in Atoona, Pa. It was quite the trip. It reminded me of driving in West Virginia, except there weren't as many sharp turns. I am glad Bob was driving because he is used to driving roads like that!! It is so nice not to have to worry about phone calls this week from missionaries! I mean I love them but I really need the break from the stresses of being in the office. Thankfully, we have the Cannon's there. If anything really strange happens they will call the APs, who in turn will email Bob. Sister Cannon will also email me if there is some problem that she can't handle. I look forward to a relaxing Christmas with Misty and Chris, their spouses and my sweet grandchildren. On Monday the 28th we will also be seeing Christian, Michelle and their boys for the Memorial Service that will be held in West Virginia for Bob's brother. I 'm so glad they are coming.
I wish a peaceful Christmas to all reading our blog. I'm so thankful for the birth of our Savior.
Love, Mom, Bonnie
Bob: The drive down was stressful. We got started a little late and then had to get off the freeway in Hamilton to give some Christmas presents to the Zone Leaders. They were late getting there so that took some time. Then when we got to the border it took 30 minutes to get through. There weren't many cars, but someone in our lane took about 15 minutes to get through. However, the line next to us had some really bad luck. They were sitting there waiting to enter the checkout area when one of the guards came up and put a cable across the lane shutting it down. I have no idea wht they expected the cars to do that were in line.
Then it started raining. It rained most of the way from then on. And when we got into the mountains in Pennsylvania it got really foggy. We were coming down one mountain in the fog, and Bonnie was getting upset because she thought I was going too fast. She thought the speed limit was 40 and I was doing almost 60. That was a special speed limit for trucks only!! We finally got out of the fog and she settled down.
We stopped at a Dutch Pantry to eat and they were super busy. One family finally got up and left without getting their order. While they were at the front desk telling the greeter they were leaving, the waitress came out of the kitchen with their order. She just looked over at the empty booth and said to the bus boy, "What happened to my table?" It took a long time for our order to finally come and they didn't serve Bonnie the chicken that she had ordered. But she enjoyed it anyway.
Finally got to Altoona and the Days Inn we had booked. We are really impressed with the motel. It is as nice a facility as I have been in. At check-in they told me it is only 2 years old which makes it verry nice. They had fresh cookies and warm broccoli soup for us, too.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I wish a peaceful Christmas to all reading our blog. I'm so thankful for the birth of our Savior.
Love, Mom, Bonnie
Bob: The drive down was stressful. We got started a little late and then had to get off the freeway in Hamilton to give some Christmas presents to the Zone Leaders. They were late getting there so that took some time. Then when we got to the border it took 30 minutes to get through. There weren't many cars, but someone in our lane took about 15 minutes to get through. However, the line next to us had some really bad luck. They were sitting there waiting to enter the checkout area when one of the guards came up and put a cable across the lane shutting it down. I have no idea wht they expected the cars to do that were in line.
Then it started raining. It rained most of the way from then on. And when we got into the mountains in Pennsylvania it got really foggy. We were coming down one mountain in the fog, and Bonnie was getting upset because she thought I was going too fast. She thought the speed limit was 40 and I was doing almost 60. That was a special speed limit for trucks only!! We finally got out of the fog and she settled down.
We stopped at a Dutch Pantry to eat and they were super busy. One family finally got up and left without getting their order. While they were at the front desk telling the greeter they were leaving, the waitress came out of the kitchen with their order. She just looked over at the empty booth and said to the bus boy, "What happened to my table?" It took a long time for our order to finally come and they didn't serve Bonnie the chicken that she had ordered. But she enjoyed it anyway.
Finally got to Altoona and the Days Inn we had booked. We are really impressed with the motel. It is as nice a facility as I have been in. At check-in they told me it is only 2 years old which makes it verry nice. They had fresh cookies and warm broccoli soup for us, too.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tuesday 22 December 2015
December 22, 2015
Bonnie: It's been a good day. I have resolved some issues with UPSCanada. I've communiated with all of the parents and it looks like the charges are being paid. Most of the packages are delivered. Bob and I will finish up with stopping by Hamilton Zone Leaders on our way to the States to deliver the rest of their packages.
We had a office party today and we included the Brampton Zone Leaders so we had 13 for a pizza lunch. We will work only a half day tomorrow so we can get on our way. I'm getting excited about being with children and grandchildren for Christmas. Tonight, I delivered cookies to our neighbors across the hall and the son was very surprised. He said, "I'll have to make you some cookies!" Then I told him we would be leaving tomorrow for Christmas. I can see him making us some when we get back, though. I'm determined to give out more of the "A Savior Is Born" cards. Besides giving one to our neighbors, I gave one to my hairdresser. We're bringing several with us and I will be leaving them with the people we interact with on our trip south.
Well, we have packing to do so I am signing off. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Surprise, surprise. We are stopping in Hamilton to deliver packages. I thought that was already done. No one has been contacted to receive the packages.
Got the apartment set up for the new CES couple today. I was really surprised by how nice it looks. It still needs someone to arrange things and maybe get some lamps, but it is okay for someone to move in. I think they'll have about a week to get it ready before their first Institute class starts. Now I have one more apartment to get ready by the 1st of February for the incoming Employment couple. Will have to buy them some furniture though.
Well I'm going to finish packing and turn in. Excited to be leaving, but the work will be knee high when we get back. Hope nothing major arises.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We had a office party today and we included the Brampton Zone Leaders so we had 13 for a pizza lunch. We will work only a half day tomorrow so we can get on our way. I'm getting excited about being with children and grandchildren for Christmas. Tonight, I delivered cookies to our neighbors across the hall and the son was very surprised. He said, "I'll have to make you some cookies!" Then I told him we would be leaving tomorrow for Christmas. I can see him making us some when we get back, though. I'm determined to give out more of the "A Savior Is Born" cards. Besides giving one to our neighbors, I gave one to my hairdresser. We're bringing several with us and I will be leaving them with the people we interact with on our trip south.
Well, we have packing to do so I am signing off. Merry Christmas, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Surprise, surprise. We are stopping in Hamilton to deliver packages. I thought that was already done. No one has been contacted to receive the packages.
Got the apartment set up for the new CES couple today. I was really surprised by how nice it looks. It still needs someone to arrange things and maybe get some lamps, but it is okay for someone to move in. I think they'll have about a week to get it ready before their first Institute class starts. Now I have one more apartment to get ready by the 1st of February for the incoming Employment couple. Will have to buy them some furniture though.
Well I'm going to finish packing and turn in. Excited to be leaving, but the work will be knee high when we get back. Hope nothing major arises.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 21 December 2015
December 21, 2015
Bob: It has been a very busy day. Got the bills caught up and took Bonnie home so she could get some rest. I then drove to Oshawa and dropped off the rest of the packages we had for that Zone. Went back to the office and was able to finally get November's phone/text reports from Rogers. They are a month behind in their billings and the reports weren't available till this past Saturday. Once I got those sent to Christian, our YSA computer programmer, I went to the storage hut and gathered up some things to take to the new apartment tomorrow. I didn't have as much in the storage shed as I thought so I may have to buy some more things.
It has rained most of the day, but the temperature is so warm that there isn't much chance of snow. It will be in the 50s when we leave Wednesday. Planning on driving to Altoona Wednesday night and then to West Friendship Thursday. Don't exactly know what the travel plans are after that except we will be in New Martinsville on Sunday night and leave Monday afternoon for Erie, Pa. Then back to work on Tuesday sometime.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I didn't get much rest because I wanted to deliver cookie plates to some of the senior temple couples, and then I decided to see if my hairdresser could give me a haircut. She was able to do it, so I got back to the apartment the same time Bob did. I will be going to bed early tonight, though.
We figured out all of the gifts for the missionaries today. That makes me feel better about Christmas! Each one should have something Christmas morning. Now, if I can just get everything worked out with UPS Canada I will have a much better Christmas. We've told the missionaries that anything that comes after today will have to be given to them at MLC on January 6th.
May your Christmas preparations be going well for each of you, as we remember the best gift ever--our Savior Jesus Christ! My love to all,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
It has rained most of the day, but the temperature is so warm that there isn't much chance of snow. It will be in the 50s when we leave Wednesday. Planning on driving to Altoona Wednesday night and then to West Friendship Thursday. Don't exactly know what the travel plans are after that except we will be in New Martinsville on Sunday night and leave Monday afternoon for Erie, Pa. Then back to work on Tuesday sometime.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I didn't get much rest because I wanted to deliver cookie plates to some of the senior temple couples, and then I decided to see if my hairdresser could give me a haircut. She was able to do it, so I got back to the apartment the same time Bob did. I will be going to bed early tonight, though.
We figured out all of the gifts for the missionaries today. That makes me feel better about Christmas! Each one should have something Christmas morning. Now, if I can just get everything worked out with UPS Canada I will have a much better Christmas. We've told the missionaries that anything that comes after today will have to be given to them at MLC on January 6th.
May your Christmas preparations be going well for each of you, as we remember the best gift ever--our Savior Jesus Christ! My love to all,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 20 December 2015
December 20, 2015
Bob: Long day. We ended up taking Sean to church. Picking him up takes about 20 minutes longer than if we went straight to church. On the way home another young man needed a ride home. He took us 21 kilometers northeast of where we needed to go. So it took an hour and 20 minutes to get home when it usually takes about 45. And there was some stop and go traffic, of course. I think one of the main pastimes in Toronto is sitting in traffic.
Bonnie baked some more butter tarts once we got home. Her first batch this morning didn't turn out too well. They taste okay, but the appearance is not good. She said she put too much filling in them and cooked them too long. The second batch looked a lot better. Then we made up some cookie plates and took them to some of the other missionaries in the buildings here.
It's getting close to our leaving and I still have an apartment I have to get ready for an incoming couple. Going to try to move things in on Tuesday. We'll see how it turns out.
I'll let Bonnie finish up. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I am so tired and I still don't feel real well. In fact, I had to leave Relief Society early because I couldn't control my cough.
Yesterday was a day of baking. I made Faith's Secret Recipe for Raspberry Thumbprints and peppermint cookies. Today, as Bob said, I attempted to make butter tarts and it turned out to be a fiasco. Because these were smaller than usual, I should not have let them bake so long. And then I put too much filling in them. So the second batch was much better, although I should have put more filling in these. Oh, well! The next time I make them, they will be perfect! We still have four plates to deliver, along with one for our neighbors across the hall. We don't even know their names but have had some nice conversations with them.
We are having an office party Tuesday which will be fun. We're doing it because one of the APs said he wanted one. So, we'll probably have pizza and bread sticks and soda pop to drink. We were given a huge basket of candy by one of the car dealerships, with enough cookies for dessert on Tuesday. That works out well!
We're anxious to head for Maryland and Pennsylvania for Christmas. We both need the break! We have a donation for those missionaries without anything for Christmas to add to what we have already planned. They will have a nice bit of money to spend over Christmas thanks to the generosity of our Bishop. I love to see the kindness and good will that this season seems to bring out in all of us. Hopefully, all of you have witnessed this kind of love in some way this Christmas. That's what it's all about.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bonnie baked some more butter tarts once we got home. Her first batch this morning didn't turn out too well. They taste okay, but the appearance is not good. She said she put too much filling in them and cooked them too long. The second batch looked a lot better. Then we made up some cookie plates and took them to some of the other missionaries in the buildings here.
It's getting close to our leaving and I still have an apartment I have to get ready for an incoming couple. Going to try to move things in on Tuesday. We'll see how it turns out.
I'll let Bonnie finish up. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I am so tired and I still don't feel real well. In fact, I had to leave Relief Society early because I couldn't control my cough.
Yesterday was a day of baking. I made Faith's Secret Recipe for Raspberry Thumbprints and peppermint cookies. Today, as Bob said, I attempted to make butter tarts and it turned out to be a fiasco. Because these were smaller than usual, I should not have let them bake so long. And then I put too much filling in them. So the second batch was much better, although I should have put more filling in these. Oh, well! The next time I make them, they will be perfect! We still have four plates to deliver, along with one for our neighbors across the hall. We don't even know their names but have had some nice conversations with them.
We are having an office party Tuesday which will be fun. We're doing it because one of the APs said he wanted one. So, we'll probably have pizza and bread sticks and soda pop to drink. We were given a huge basket of candy by one of the car dealerships, with enough cookies for dessert on Tuesday. That works out well!
We're anxious to head for Maryland and Pennsylvania for Christmas. We both need the break! We have a donation for those missionaries without anything for Christmas to add to what we have already planned. They will have a nice bit of money to spend over Christmas thanks to the generosity of our Bishop. I love to see the kindness and good will that this season seems to bring out in all of us. Hopefully, all of you have witnessed this kind of love in some way this Christmas. That's what it's all about.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
December 19, 2015
Bob: The First Mate is in bed already. It is 12:50 right now. Thought I would tell you a little about our day. We have 10 missionaries left in the mission that won't be getting anything from home for Christmas. So Sisters Martin, Erickson and Cannon put together a plan that would provide each of the missionaries with a small gift and $10 cash. When Bonnie told me this I thought we ought to be able to do a little better. After talking to the right people today we got another $300 to divide between the 10. At least they'll have a little more money to get something that might have been wanting.
Went to the YSA Christmas party tonight. It was a huge success. The program was short, but inspiring. The meal included ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, rice, Caesar salad, bean salad, vegetables and lots of desserts with ice cream provided later. After the meal there was a gift exchange. Those with a gift divided into 2 circles with their gift in front of them. One person was put in the center of the circle with their gift. Each person was assigned the name of a fruit either apple, banana or something else. The person in the middle would shout one of the fruits and those with that tag were to move to another present. The person in the center could move to a place in the circle too. This always left one person in the center. After so long the game ended and the gift in front of you was the one you got.
Next was dancing and socialising. The dance lasted till 10:30 and then the big clean up began. We finally left to take Sean home and got home ourselves around 11:30.
Hope everyone had a great day. I understand that BYU football fans aren't really happy right now, but they dug themselves too big a hole to start the game. However, they had the Utes sweating it out at the end. As Adolph Rupp once said, "I never lost a game; I just ran out of time!"
Hope everyone has had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Went to the YSA Christmas party tonight. It was a huge success. The program was short, but inspiring. The meal included ham, turkey, mashed potatoes, rice, Caesar salad, bean salad, vegetables and lots of desserts with ice cream provided later. After the meal there was a gift exchange. Those with a gift divided into 2 circles with their gift in front of them. One person was put in the center of the circle with their gift. Each person was assigned the name of a fruit either apple, banana or something else. The person in the middle would shout one of the fruits and those with that tag were to move to another present. The person in the center could move to a place in the circle too. This always left one person in the center. After so long the game ended and the gift in front of you was the one you got.
Next was dancing and socialising. The dance lasted till 10:30 and then the big clean up began. We finally left to take Sean home and got home ourselves around 11:30.
Hope everyone had a great day. I understand that BYU football fans aren't really happy right now, but they dug themselves too big a hole to start the game. However, they had the Utes sweating it out at the end. As Adolph Rupp once said, "I never lost a game; I just ran out of time!"
Hope everyone has had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Friday 18 December 2015
December 18, 2015
Bob: Not a bad day. Most things seem to be going okay. We took the 2 Sister Missionaries from the YSA to Pizza Hut for dinner tonight. After dinner I dropped Bonnie off at one of her favorite stores, Dollarama. After she finished we finally arrived home. Then I did the wash while she went grocery shopping. A real fun way to spend our Friday evening!!
We have finally ended our contract with AT&T. They did give me credit for the additional month they were trying to charge me for. That is one good thing I can say about them. Right now I am trying to get my phone unlocked. The first attempt failed. They just said the information doesn't match. So we are trying again. Haven't heard anything back yet. A dear friend once told me he hated phone companies more than anyone he had done business with. Maybe he was a pretty smart guy.
Well it is late, so I will say good night. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Last night's performance of the "Phantom" was awesome! The theatre is a beautiful place. It's called "The Princess of Wales" Theatre! There were some special side-effects, especially with the chandelier, that made it very exciting.I enjoyed walking downtown looking at all of the restaurants, trying to decide where to eat. We went into one, and the ladies coming out said, "Do you have a reservation? You'll need a reservation to eat here!" Needless to say we ventured farther up the street and came to a very nice looking French restaurant. It was a bit pricy, but delicious. And there was a woman singing songs and playing the guitar while we ate. The whole night was quite the experience!
Today our final count of those missionaries without any packages for Christmas came down to 12. So, we decided to each take care of 4. We will be putting a chocolate orange inside decorative bags and an envelope with cash in it. I bought the bags and tags for names and have some cash for my four presents. Since we know one missionary, a young man who kept score while Bob officiated, we will put more money inside his gift bag. I'm glad we are doing it. We've also arranged to deliver everything by Monday evening. Any packages that come after Monday will have to be delivered at MLC which is January 6th.
Tomorrow is the regional YSA Christmas party at our ward. I have made some Chrismassy jello salads for it. We will be picking up three YSAs, so I guess that means we're in for a long night tomorrow. I'm sure the food will be good. They are cooking at least 4 large turkeys for it. And the YSAs are supposed to bring the desserts.
Well, I've got to get to bed. My love to all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We have finally ended our contract with AT&T. They did give me credit for the additional month they were trying to charge me for. That is one good thing I can say about them. Right now I am trying to get my phone unlocked. The first attempt failed. They just said the information doesn't match. So we are trying again. Haven't heard anything back yet. A dear friend once told me he hated phone companies more than anyone he had done business with. Maybe he was a pretty smart guy.
Well it is late, so I will say good night. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Last night's performance of the "Phantom" was awesome! The theatre is a beautiful place. It's called "The Princess of Wales" Theatre! There were some special side-effects, especially with the chandelier, that made it very exciting.I enjoyed walking downtown looking at all of the restaurants, trying to decide where to eat. We went into one, and the ladies coming out said, "Do you have a reservation? You'll need a reservation to eat here!" Needless to say we ventured farther up the street and came to a very nice looking French restaurant. It was a bit pricy, but delicious. And there was a woman singing songs and playing the guitar while we ate. The whole night was quite the experience!
Today our final count of those missionaries without any packages for Christmas came down to 12. So, we decided to each take care of 4. We will be putting a chocolate orange inside decorative bags and an envelope with cash in it. I bought the bags and tags for names and have some cash for my four presents. Since we know one missionary, a young man who kept score while Bob officiated, we will put more money inside his gift bag. I'm glad we are doing it. We've also arranged to deliver everything by Monday evening. Any packages that come after Monday will have to be delivered at MLC which is January 6th.
Tomorrow is the regional YSA Christmas party at our ward. I have made some Chrismassy jello salads for it. We will be picking up three YSAs, so I guess that means we're in for a long night tomorrow. I'm sure the food will be good. They are cooking at least 4 large turkeys for it. And the YSAs are supposed to bring the desserts.
Well, I've got to get to bed. My love to all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Thursday 17 December 2015
December 17, 2015
Bob: Pretty easy day at work. We closed up shop and left at about 4:05 for the theater to see Phantom of the Opera. There was also a Maple Leafs hockey game in the area so we knew traffic would be bad. It took about 1:40 minutes to get there. 15 minutes of that was driving around the block so we could pull into the parking garage at the theater. So we had time time to go eat. Ate at 'Le Saint Tropez', a French restaurant. I had some special swordfish and the First Mate had beef "cheeks" with mashed potatoes. Once we finished we walked up to the theater and got there at about 5 till 7. The show was pretty good, but I had a little trouble following everything in the story. Coming home the traffic was much better once we got onto the expressway. Probably took us 15 minutes to go 2 kilometers to get on the expressway and then less that 30 minutes for us to be back home, parked in the garage. All in all it was a good night and I think the First Mate enjoyed her Christmas present.
Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Wednesday 16 December 2015
December 16, 2015
Bonnie: Bob is in bed early tonight because he is not feeling well. I get to do the blog by myself. I feel a bit better tonight although I have a cough which is annoying.
Today was a fairly easy day. The Cannon's went to Zone Conference where they helped many of the missionaries get flu shots. And Elder Erickson went to talk about driving in the snow. We now know that most of the missionaries will be receiving something for Christmas. There are about 25 that we're not sure of and the Zone Leaders will be finding out about these last few. The packages and bulging manilla envelopes are still arriving each day, though there are fewer than before. It means that a special trip just before Christmas will be needed to deliver these last gifts because the final Zone Conference is tomorrow. I feel good that all of the missionaries will have something. Even if we need to provide for these last 25, we can do it between the Clayton's, Ericksons, Cannons and Bob and I. It's something I will love doing.
Tomorrow night is our adventure in downtown Toronto--the theatre district--to see "Phantom of the Opera". It will be exciting, I'm sure. The bad part is battling the high volume of traffic. It's the night of a hockey game, as well! We'll let you know how it turns out.
It's time for me to get ready for bed. I need my rest so I'm up for our adventure tomorrow!
We love you all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Today was a fairly easy day. The Cannon's went to Zone Conference where they helped many of the missionaries get flu shots. And Elder Erickson went to talk about driving in the snow. We now know that most of the missionaries will be receiving something for Christmas. There are about 25 that we're not sure of and the Zone Leaders will be finding out about these last few. The packages and bulging manilla envelopes are still arriving each day, though there are fewer than before. It means that a special trip just before Christmas will be needed to deliver these last gifts because the final Zone Conference is tomorrow. I feel good that all of the missionaries will have something. Even if we need to provide for these last 25, we can do it between the Clayton's, Ericksons, Cannons and Bob and I. It's something I will love doing.
Tomorrow night is our adventure in downtown Toronto--the theatre district--to see "Phantom of the Opera". It will be exciting, I'm sure. The bad part is battling the high volume of traffic. It's the night of a hockey game, as well! We'll let you know how it turns out.
It's time for me to get ready for bed. I need my rest so I'm up for our adventure tomorrow!
We love you all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 15 December 2015
December 15, 2015
Bonnie: I will begin the blog tonight and Bob will finish after I am asleep. I left the office early today because I'm not feeling well. He used one of the extra cars to go to Institute tonight in Mississauga. I am about to take a dose of Nyquil and then go to bed.
I had another call from a Mom today about a package that her son has not received. She was in tears telling me that it contained special things from her mother that has passed away especially for her son. She mailed it to his apartment and then he was transfered. So now I will have to track it down if I can. These are difficult situations and are not fun to deal with! I wish parents would follow our suggestions about packages. We also got a new Sister missionary today, an American who speaks Mandarin or Cantonese. She also is the driver for the twosome. I hope she can deal with the aggresive drivers and all of the heavy traffic here in Toronto. She is from Springville, Utah. She looked a little overwhelmed, as any of us would be in the same situation.
Sweet dreams everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: The instructor for Institute couldn't get to class tonight. The Bishop took his place and he did a good job. There were 4 YSA there and we discussed Alma 5 and his forty questions for the church. Very good discussion and some honest feelings shared.
The day didn't start well as the main street out in front of our building was blocked off for some reason. Whatever it was has not ended as it is still blocked. Almost everyone was late getting to the office this morning. We were supposed to start the training at 8:30, but Sister Skinner didn't get there till about 8:40 - 8:45. That kind of let us off the hook as we beat her there by about 5 minutes.
Found out today that the landlord in Timmins wants us to move by the end of February. The owner of the place is going to move in. So we'll be hunting another place up there. It's about 8 hours north of us.
Weather is holding up here. I think it is going to go down to freezing the next 3 days, but then it comes back up. Charlene told me tonight that the predictions is for 13 degrees Celcius on Christmas.
Well I had better get to bed. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
I had another call from a Mom today about a package that her son has not received. She was in tears telling me that it contained special things from her mother that has passed away especially for her son. She mailed it to his apartment and then he was transfered. So now I will have to track it down if I can. These are difficult situations and are not fun to deal with! I wish parents would follow our suggestions about packages. We also got a new Sister missionary today, an American who speaks Mandarin or Cantonese. She also is the driver for the twosome. I hope she can deal with the aggresive drivers and all of the heavy traffic here in Toronto. She is from Springville, Utah. She looked a little overwhelmed, as any of us would be in the same situation.
Sweet dreams everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: The instructor for Institute couldn't get to class tonight. The Bishop took his place and he did a good job. There were 4 YSA there and we discussed Alma 5 and his forty questions for the church. Very good discussion and some honest feelings shared.
The day didn't start well as the main street out in front of our building was blocked off for some reason. Whatever it was has not ended as it is still blocked. Almost everyone was late getting to the office this morning. We were supposed to start the training at 8:30, but Sister Skinner didn't get there till about 8:40 - 8:45. That kind of let us off the hook as we beat her there by about 5 minutes.
Found out today that the landlord in Timmins wants us to move by the end of February. The owner of the place is going to move in. So we'll be hunting another place up there. It's about 8 hours north of us.
Weather is holding up here. I think it is going to go down to freezing the next 3 days, but then it comes back up. Charlene told me tonight that the predictions is for 13 degrees Celcius on Christmas.
Well I had better get to bed. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Monday 14 December 2015
December 14, 2015
Bob: Had to pay the rent for January today. The total will be almost $120,000 this month. Now paying rent on 125 apartments. Got it all done today. Just waiting on the President to approve everything.
About had an emergency move last night. Seems that an Elder wanting to celebrate his one year mark thought it would be keeping to tradition if he burned one of his ties. So he built a small fire. The building superintendent didn't think it was quite so funny though as the ashes blew onto some other balconies. President Clayton didn't think much of it either as the Superintendent called him out of bed last night to give 'a verbal eviction notice'. Seems as though the Superintendent might have had just a little too much to drink before he called. I told the President that it just proves that alcohol and fire don't mix well!! He agreed.
Went to the Mission home tonight for a dinner and evening with the other Senior couples in the Mission. I think everyone was there plus the Ludlows, the McMichaels (Temple President) and their son, and one of President McMichael's counselors and his wife. Had a great meal and then we sang some Christmas carols followed by a lot of dessert. Got home about 9:30.
Brother Ludlow told a story about how he used to take some children around to give gifts to other children at Christmas. He had a Santa Claus, lots of gifts and a group of up to 39 children and adults. They would stop at a house, sing some carols and then present the children with the gifts. One night they went to the Mission Home. After they sang their songs they all went inside. Everyone got to sit on Santa's lap. The last person to sit on Santa's lap was the Mission President. When he did, Santa said, 'Well Russ, have you been a good boy this year?' Can you guess who Russ was? Russ was M. Russell Ballard when he was the Mission President and Santa was one of his missionaries! The Church purchased the present Mission Home with encouragement from Pres. Ballard. Brother Ludlow said President Ballard never knew it was one of his missionaries until years later when the story was told to Elder Ballard's brother.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's been a good night although I am really tired. I haven't felt well all day to be honest. I am stressed about delivering Christmas packages to the missionaries. And I have to find things for Sister Cannon to do, which is difficult sometimes. I got a call from a mother in tears because her daughter has not received a gift sent in October. It was full of homemade items in preparation for the Christmas holidays. UPS is now searching for the box. We're down to about 30 wihout gifts that I know of. I know of two who for sure will not be receiving anything. I'll probably just help those two and hope everyone else gets something. I've heard stories about how companions share what they get for Christmas with each other. I assume this will happen in our mission, too. I hope so anyway.
Well, tomorrow is another early day because a new missionary just arrived tonight. We'll "train" her in the morning about 8:30 am. Then there is our last Institute class for the semester. We are studying Alma 5. Maybe I can read it on the way to the office tomorrow.
I hope everyone has a wonderful night tonight and an even better day tomorrow. Love to all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
About had an emergency move last night. Seems that an Elder wanting to celebrate his one year mark thought it would be keeping to tradition if he burned one of his ties. So he built a small fire. The building superintendent didn't think it was quite so funny though as the ashes blew onto some other balconies. President Clayton didn't think much of it either as the Superintendent called him out of bed last night to give 'a verbal eviction notice'. Seems as though the Superintendent might have had just a little too much to drink before he called. I told the President that it just proves that alcohol and fire don't mix well!! He agreed.
Went to the Mission home tonight for a dinner and evening with the other Senior couples in the Mission. I think everyone was there plus the Ludlows, the McMichaels (Temple President) and their son, and one of President McMichael's counselors and his wife. Had a great meal and then we sang some Christmas carols followed by a lot of dessert. Got home about 9:30.
Brother Ludlow told a story about how he used to take some children around to give gifts to other children at Christmas. He had a Santa Claus, lots of gifts and a group of up to 39 children and adults. They would stop at a house, sing some carols and then present the children with the gifts. One night they went to the Mission Home. After they sang their songs they all went inside. Everyone got to sit on Santa's lap. The last person to sit on Santa's lap was the Mission President. When he did, Santa said, 'Well Russ, have you been a good boy this year?' Can you guess who Russ was? Russ was M. Russell Ballard when he was the Mission President and Santa was one of his missionaries! The Church purchased the present Mission Home with encouragement from Pres. Ballard. Brother Ludlow said President Ballard never knew it was one of his missionaries until years later when the story was told to Elder Ballard's brother.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's been a good night although I am really tired. I haven't felt well all day to be honest. I am stressed about delivering Christmas packages to the missionaries. And I have to find things for Sister Cannon to do, which is difficult sometimes. I got a call from a mother in tears because her daughter has not received a gift sent in October. It was full of homemade items in preparation for the Christmas holidays. UPS is now searching for the box. We're down to about 30 wihout gifts that I know of. I know of two who for sure will not be receiving anything. I'll probably just help those two and hope everyone else gets something. I've heard stories about how companions share what they get for Christmas with each other. I assume this will happen in our mission, too. I hope so anyway.
Well, tomorrow is another early day because a new missionary just arrived tonight. We'll "train" her in the morning about 8:30 am. Then there is our last Institute class for the semester. We are studying Alma 5. Maybe I can read it on the way to the office tomorrow.
I hope everyone has a wonderful night tonight and an even better day tomorrow. Love to all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 13 December 2015
December 13, 2015
Bonnie: Today has been a Sabbath full of interesting things! The first one was a charming story told in one of the Sacrament meeting talks--a Christmas story about two little boys, brothers, who went shopping with a social worker. Each had $4 to spend. They went several places and did not want to get any presents. When the social worker asked them where they wanted to go, they said to a shoestore. They pulled out a piece of brown paper with the shape of a foot they had drawn of their father's, when he was sleeping. They wanted to buy him a new pair of shoes. They found a pair, looked at the price and knew they could not afford it. Then, the salesman said that just for today they were only $3.99, a special one-time sale price. They bought the shoes and then had a little money for a few small toys. Later the father in his new, much needed shoes saw the social worker and was so thankful. What an example of two loving boys! The next surprise happened when the Bishop, at the end of the meeting, asked a visitor to come to the stand and bear his testimony. It was Jimmer Fredette who had come to sacrament meeting with a friend, 7'2" Jordan Bachynski, also a basketball player, before one of their games! He bore a marvelous testimony. Imagine the surprise of all of the Americans in the audience! The next surprise came when we opened up our "white elephant" gift from Friday night. It was a box of homemade chocolates. But we knew it was chocolates. The surprise came when we saw the card. They were made by the Stake President's wife, or maybe their family! They are yummy!! We are now on our way to the Stake Christmas Program. Maybe there will be more surprises coming. How I love this time of year!
All my love to each of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has pretty well filled you in on what has happened today. The Christmas program was nice tonight, but after starting for church at 11:00 this morning I am glad to be home. Hope your day was blessed. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
All my love to each of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has pretty well filled you in on what has happened today. The Christmas program was nice tonight, but after starting for church at 11:00 this morning I am glad to be home. Hope your day was blessed. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Saturday 12 December 2015
December 12, 2015
Bob: It has been a peaceful and relaxing day. We finally got up and headed to Vaughn Mills to do some Christmas shopping for each other. Well we came home and I didn't have anything for Bonnie. She couldn't find anything. Doesn't want boots because they might hurt her feet. Doesn't want to look for a winter coat. Wants thick socks not too thick. Who knows??
She did buy a couple of scarves, but we think she got the wrong kind once we looked them over. And after I told her to pay for them with the GM mastercard she used the BAYER visa card! Later in the afternoon she told me that the scriptures sent to us by the Lindon 3rd Ward had duties on them so she paid them with the American Express card. I reminded her that we aren't to use the American Express card while in Canada. She asked, "Why not? Do they have a Canadian Express card?"
Oh, by the way, we heard a joke about 2 young women who were talking. One said, "You know that Christmas is on Friday this year." The other replied, "I hope it's not Friday the 13th!"
Been trying to order Bonnie one thing online through Amazon.com. Everytime I type in Amazon I get Shannan's Prime account to come up! I think we ordered something one time using her prime account and now the computer thinks that is our account. (Finally got Shannan cancelled and our account entered. They don't make it easy.)
Everyone have a great Sabbath tomorrow. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: In my defense Bob was not at the office when I paid the duties. Since I couldn't ask him I did the best I could.
It was fun going to this outlet mall today, but it tired me out. We got Bob a nice present for Christmas morning and looked at various things in several stores. We then did the grocery shopping on the way home. It tired both of us out. And I'm getting a sore throat to top it all off. Bob has been fighting one all week and I guess he gave it to me. I hope to be to bed early tonight so that I feel good enough for church tomorrow.
May the Sabbath be an inspiring day for all of us, where we feel the Spirit in our hearts! It's a wonderful time of year.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
She did buy a couple of scarves, but we think she got the wrong kind once we looked them over. And after I told her to pay for them with the GM mastercard she used the BAYER visa card! Later in the afternoon she told me that the scriptures sent to us by the Lindon 3rd Ward had duties on them so she paid them with the American Express card. I reminded her that we aren't to use the American Express card while in Canada. She asked, "Why not? Do they have a Canadian Express card?"
Oh, by the way, we heard a joke about 2 young women who were talking. One said, "You know that Christmas is on Friday this year." The other replied, "I hope it's not Friday the 13th!"
Been trying to order Bonnie one thing online through Amazon.com. Everytime I type in Amazon I get Shannan's Prime account to come up! I think we ordered something one time using her prime account and now the computer thinks that is our account. (Finally got Shannan cancelled and our account entered. They don't make it easy.)
Everyone have a great Sabbath tomorrow. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: In my defense Bob was not at the office when I paid the duties. Since I couldn't ask him I did the best I could.
It was fun going to this outlet mall today, but it tired me out. We got Bob a nice present for Christmas morning and looked at various things in several stores. We then did the grocery shopping on the way home. It tired both of us out. And I'm getting a sore throat to top it all off. Bob has been fighting one all week and I guess he gave it to me. I hope to be to bed early tonight so that I feel good enough for church tomorrow.
May the Sabbath be an inspiring day for all of us, where we feel the Spirit in our hearts! It's a wonderful time of year.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 11 December 2015
December 11, 2015
Bob: It is 11:00. Been home about 10 minutes. Went to a dinner, get together for YSA advisors at Bishop Finnigan's home. Most of them couldn't attend but there were 9 couples altogether. The Stake Presidency, a high councilman, the Bishop, and 3 advisors with their wives. After a wonderful dinner we had a white elephant gift exchange. We ended up with a box of chocolates which I forgot and left at the Bishop's house.
Went to Ajax this morning to help the Sister's move from one apartment to another. The Elders from Pickering came over and helped them with the heavy stuff. We had to take a door down but we were able to get everything out including the couch. It is going in the dumpster.
Weather was in the low 50s today. Much warmer than Salt Lake I noticed. Should be mild for a few more days too. The First Mate is loving it.
I am going to put some pictures from the party tonight below.
Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had an enjoyable night, eating good food, having a White Elephant exchange, singing Christmas carols and hearing from our Bishop and Stake President. It was a great way to spend the evening. Tomorrow we will get up late and go Christmas shopping, although my big present will be going to see "Phantom of the Opera" on Thursday night in downtown Toronto.
I spent lots of time on the phone with UPSCanada today. They love to ask for more money at customs and for Canadian taxes. I had to contact 7 parents and tell them about having to pay more money for packages already delivered. I hate doing that. We are now down to about 40 missionaries without presents this Christmas. Each day the numbers improve. I hope it gets down to about 20. We can cover that! And I hope all of you are getting your Christmas shopping done! It's two weeks away now. Wow, the time is going fast!
Let's enjoy the most important things--our precious relationships with each other, especially our Savior, My love to all...Love, Mom/Bonnie
Went to Ajax this morning to help the Sister's move from one apartment to another. The Elders from Pickering came over and helped them with the heavy stuff. We had to take a door down but we were able to get everything out including the couch. It is going in the dumpster.
Weather was in the low 50s today. Much warmer than Salt Lake I noticed. Should be mild for a few more days too. The First Mate is loving it.
I am going to put some pictures from the party tonight below.
Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had an enjoyable night, eating good food, having a White Elephant exchange, singing Christmas carols and hearing from our Bishop and Stake President. It was a great way to spend the evening. Tomorrow we will get up late and go Christmas shopping, although my big present will be going to see "Phantom of the Opera" on Thursday night in downtown Toronto.
I spent lots of time on the phone with UPSCanada today. They love to ask for more money at customs and for Canadian taxes. I had to contact 7 parents and tell them about having to pay more money for packages already delivered. I hate doing that. We are now down to about 40 missionaries without presents this Christmas. Each day the numbers improve. I hope it gets down to about 20. We can cover that! And I hope all of you are getting your Christmas shopping done! It's two weeks away now. Wow, the time is going fast!
Let's enjoy the most important things--our precious relationships with each other, especially our Savior, My love to all...Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bishop Finnigan
Elder & Sister Erickson, Sister Regimbol, Brother & Sister McLellan
Stake Presidency 1C President Ebanez and his wife
President Ebanez and his wife, Monica Vicente (wife of High Councilman) and Sister Finnigan
Thursday 10 December 2015
December 10, 2015
Bob: Not much unusual going on today. Tried to get everything done as I will be gone part of the day tomorrow and leaving on time for a party.
One unusual thing happened that I am going to let Salt Lake worry about. When we pay anyone we have to set them up as a VENDOR. To do this I have to fill out a sheet with the name of the person we will be paying, their address, phone number, etc. Then the proposed Vendor needs to sign it. Well, I sent one to an electric company today and they replied 'we don't process these type of requests'. Thus, no signature. I just forwarded it to Salt Lake. It will be interesting to see how they handle it. Will let you know. This seems like a laborous system for someone who is getting a one time payment. There is an exception in that situation. They have a special title and do not require the Vendor form.
Weather was very pleasant today as the temperature was just above 50 I do believe. No rain, but lots of fog in the morning and haze in the afternoon. Supposed to be 50 and bright sunshine tomorrow. Hope that gets rid of some of the haze.
Better close for now. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I just got finished with making cookies and a salad for our party tomorrow night. I made Faith's "secret" recipe for raspberry thumbprints. They taste really good! It's 10:15 and I really need to get to bed, but I just remembered that I have to wrap a white elephant gift. It shouldn't take too long, thankfully.
I'm still worried about the missionaries and their Christmas gifts. We have about 50 that don't have anything coming right now, unless parents have sent their gift directly to their apartments. This will be another assignment for the Zone Leaders, I guess. They will have to find out who has received something or will receive something over the next two weeks and report back to me. We have offers of help from the Temple missionaries, and the three couples in the office for those missionaries who won't get anything. I'm sure it will turn out fine, but I still worry.
May all of your worries be few and far between!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
One unusual thing happened that I am going to let Salt Lake worry about. When we pay anyone we have to set them up as a VENDOR. To do this I have to fill out a sheet with the name of the person we will be paying, their address, phone number, etc. Then the proposed Vendor needs to sign it. Well, I sent one to an electric company today and they replied 'we don't process these type of requests'. Thus, no signature. I just forwarded it to Salt Lake. It will be interesting to see how they handle it. Will let you know. This seems like a laborous system for someone who is getting a one time payment. There is an exception in that situation. They have a special title and do not require the Vendor form.
Weather was very pleasant today as the temperature was just above 50 I do believe. No rain, but lots of fog in the morning and haze in the afternoon. Supposed to be 50 and bright sunshine tomorrow. Hope that gets rid of some of the haze.
Better close for now. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I just got finished with making cookies and a salad for our party tomorrow night. I made Faith's "secret" recipe for raspberry thumbprints. They taste really good! It's 10:15 and I really need to get to bed, but I just remembered that I have to wrap a white elephant gift. It shouldn't take too long, thankfully.
I'm still worried about the missionaries and their Christmas gifts. We have about 50 that don't have anything coming right now, unless parents have sent their gift directly to their apartments. This will be another assignment for the Zone Leaders, I guess. They will have to find out who has received something or will receive something over the next two weeks and report back to me. We have offers of help from the Temple missionaries, and the three couples in the office for those missionaries who won't get anything. I'm sure it will turn out fine, but I still worry.
May all of your worries be few and far between!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 9 December 2015
DEcember 9, 2015
Bonnie: We are home --it's "early" Wednesday for us, and I love it! We've had some busy days Monday and Tuesday this week. As you can see in the pictures we are posting, Christmas packages are taking over the office! We got rid of the packages for two zones today, and by the end of the day had just as many set out for tomorrow's zone conference. When the mail came today, there were 9 packages for one of the zones that met today, so somehow we'll have to make some Christmas deliveries just before we leave for the US on the 23rd. I'm determined to get all of the packages to their rightful recipients. There are still several missionaries that have not received anything, but I'm hopeful that by Christmas week all of the packages will arrive. Sister Clayton has some friends that wanted to help out those missionaries who probably will not receive anything. She left 16 presents yesterday for those missionaries which is wonderful. Still, there are probably 50 others who have not received anything yet. We may need to ask others to help provide something for them. We have received several offers from the Senior Missionary couples to do this, which is comforting.
I hope everyone is enjoying this precious season. It's a wonderful time of year. May we all feel the love of the Savior for us!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Hey take a look at this great ruler I bought at the post office. Inches on one side and metric on the other. But wait, count the divisions between 0 and 1 and tell me where 1/4 is!! Another great Canadian idea. Let's see, it is .40 inches wide.
Have a couple pictures of some of the Christmas packages below. It seems like there are packages everywhere in our office. What you can't see are the10 shelves full of packages in other parts of our office.
Caught up on almost everything now. Need to get some furniture for the CES apartment. Will work on that tomorrow. Will probably be late tomorrow as I am helping move an apartment Friday.
Weather is still holding out. 39 when we got up this morning. No rain but overcast most of the day. We talked to Karl and Patsy who are in Elk Lake. There is still hardly any ice on the river. Too cold to fish so he is just waiting for the river to freeze so he can ice fish. Still debating on whether I want to do that or not.
Going to close for now. May you enjoy happiness and love all the days of your life. Love to all and good night brother.
Became a father for the 2nd time 45 years ago today. Happy birthday Veronica.
Love,
Dad/Bob
I hope everyone is enjoying this precious season. It's a wonderful time of year. May we all feel the love of the Savior for us!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Hey take a look at this great ruler I bought at the post office. Inches on one side and metric on the other. But wait, count the divisions between 0 and 1 and tell me where 1/4 is!! Another great Canadian idea. Let's see, it is .40 inches wide.
Have a couple pictures of some of the Christmas packages below. It seems like there are packages everywhere in our office. What you can't see are the10 shelves full of packages in other parts of our office.
Caught up on almost everything now. Need to get some furniture for the CES apartment. Will work on that tomorrow. Will probably be late tomorrow as I am helping move an apartment Friday.
Weather is still holding out. 39 when we got up this morning. No rain but overcast most of the day. We talked to Karl and Patsy who are in Elk Lake. There is still hardly any ice on the river. Too cold to fish so he is just waiting for the river to freeze so he can ice fish. Still debating on whether I want to do that or not.
Going to close for now. May you enjoy happiness and love all the days of your life. Love to all and good night brother.
Became a father for the 2nd time 45 years ago today. Happy birthday Veronica.
Love,
Dad/Bob
These came in the mail today!
This is yesterday after the mail came. I just got an order and I'm going through the three boxes in front of me. There was nowhere else to put them!
Tuesday 8 December 2015
December 8, 2015
Bob: Late night tonight. Didn't get home till just after 10. Went to Mississauga Institute and took Jeremy with us. He lives pretty close to where our office is so we can just pick him up on the way. But then we have to go back to drop him off. It's worth it if he wants to go. Brother Wilde is filling in as the instructor right now as Barretts have left and the Budgetts won't get here until the first of January. Only 1 more class left however. Brother Wilde has an interesting class. He would be good all the time. Bonnie and I are furnishing the treats however.
Busy, busy day at work. Caught up on most everything. Have to go to Ajax on Friday and help move the Sisters to their new apartment. Ward can't help them till next week, but I don't want to wait. The landlord wants his contractor in the basement working anytime he feels like it. Would like to report him to the Ontario Tenancy Board but we'll just live with it and move on.
Found out tonight that it shouldn't be too hard getting to the theater unless there is a hockey game, which there is!! Wish I had known that before-hand. Can't believe we picked that night.
I am calling it quits for the night. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
PS Bonnie sends her love!
Busy, busy day at work. Caught up on most everything. Have to go to Ajax on Friday and help move the Sisters to their new apartment. Ward can't help them till next week, but I don't want to wait. The landlord wants his contractor in the basement working anytime he feels like it. Would like to report him to the Ontario Tenancy Board but we'll just live with it and move on.
Found out tonight that it shouldn't be too hard getting to the theater unless there is a hockey game, which there is!! Wish I had known that before-hand. Can't believe we picked that night.
I am calling it quits for the night. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
PS Bonnie sends her love!
Monday 7 December 2015
December 7, 2015
Bob: Just got home right before 10:00. Had dinner at the Ludlow's (ham, scalloped potatoes, salad, green beans, carrots, rolls and dessert) and then went to FHE at the Brampton Stake Center. Small crowd at the Stake Center. Lot of them must have been busy doing other things tonight. All the Senior Missionaries showed up for the dinner at Ludlow's except one couple. They work in Public Affairs and had another engagement to attend.
Everything was pretty quiet at the office today. Got most of the daily things done, Trying to get some furniture ordered for the 2 new apartments for Seniors. Furniture store didn't call me back though. Try one more time tomorrow.
Got Bonnie's Christmas wish ordered tonight. We are going to see 'Phantom of the Opera' on the 17th. I think it will be okay except for the trip down to the theater. It is in downtown Toronto on King Street. Next to the Don Valley Parking Lot it is my least favorite street. We'll just have to leave early and hope for the best.
Hope your day has been enjoyable and fulfilling. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
PS Bonnie sends her love.
Everything was pretty quiet at the office today. Got most of the daily things done, Trying to get some furniture ordered for the 2 new apartments for Seniors. Furniture store didn't call me back though. Try one more time tomorrow.
Got Bonnie's Christmas wish ordered tonight. We are going to see 'Phantom of the Opera' on the 17th. I think it will be okay except for the trip down to the theater. It is in downtown Toronto on King Street. Next to the Don Valley Parking Lot it is my least favorite street. We'll just have to leave early and hope for the best.
Hope your day has been enjoyable and fulfilling. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
PS Bonnie sends her love.
Sunday 6 December 2015
December 6,2015
Bonnie: We've just had a great Sabbath Day! There is nothing like hearing the testimonies of the YSAs. They are deep and humble. We had 6 YSAs ask for rides today. We were hoping that with help we could get them all there. Unfortunately, the couple that two of the young men called couldn't get them a way to church today. This breaks my heart. I don't know what to do.
We are about to listen to the Christmas Broadcast at 8:00 tonight. I'm anxious to hear it.
I have been fasting that all of the packages sent to our missionaries will arrive tomorrow or Tuesday. We need about 90 packages, but I will be happy if we have 60 show up on our doorstep. December Zone Conferences begin on Wednesday so that's the reason for my desire to have the packages arriving by Tuesday evening.
Tomorrow is our monthly feast with the Ludlow's. That will be a treat for sure. And we can see all of our Senior Couple friends that are close enough to come. We actually have 4 very festive events this month. And one of our APs would like to have an office party! We'll see what happens there. Besides the dinner at Ludlow's there will be a Senior Missionary Couple dinner at the Mission Home with Clayton's. Then, Bishop Finnigan is having a party for the Senior Advisor couples that serve in our YSA ward. And then there will be a regional YSA Christmas party on the 19th. I will making alot of food! But, that's some of the fun.
May everyone have a great week this week.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We just finished listening to the 1st Presidency's Christmas devotional. It was really good and came in over the Internet just perfectly. I was concerned that it would buffer occasionally or have hesitation to it, but it was fine.
As Bonnie said we had 6 people needing rides to church this morning. Two of the young men didn't show up for church and one of the three we were to pick up went to an earlier meeting. So we ended up with only two. I think the Bishopric is working on calling a ride coordinator and it would really help. We asked one couple today if they could give the YSA in Mississauga rides and they said sure. Another advisor who had never been asked to give someone a ride took a young man home when the Elders asked him. I believe there are others willing to help we just need to put together a program.
My son-in-law, Scott Crossley, was able to cut the tie between AT&T and me today. In fact, they gave him an extra Gig of data for the same price he had been paying. He said he should have cut me off sooner!! I wish he could have. Anyway, I feel relieved to be done with those @#$^%&*!!
Well I had better close for now. Hope your Sabbath Day was blessed. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
We are about to listen to the Christmas Broadcast at 8:00 tonight. I'm anxious to hear it.
I have been fasting that all of the packages sent to our missionaries will arrive tomorrow or Tuesday. We need about 90 packages, but I will be happy if we have 60 show up on our doorstep. December Zone Conferences begin on Wednesday so that's the reason for my desire to have the packages arriving by Tuesday evening.
Tomorrow is our monthly feast with the Ludlow's. That will be a treat for sure. And we can see all of our Senior Couple friends that are close enough to come. We actually have 4 very festive events this month. And one of our APs would like to have an office party! We'll see what happens there. Besides the dinner at Ludlow's there will be a Senior Missionary Couple dinner at the Mission Home with Clayton's. Then, Bishop Finnigan is having a party for the Senior Advisor couples that serve in our YSA ward. And then there will be a regional YSA Christmas party on the 19th. I will making alot of food! But, that's some of the fun.
May everyone have a great week this week.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We just finished listening to the 1st Presidency's Christmas devotional. It was really good and came in over the Internet just perfectly. I was concerned that it would buffer occasionally or have hesitation to it, but it was fine.
As Bonnie said we had 6 people needing rides to church this morning. Two of the young men didn't show up for church and one of the three we were to pick up went to an earlier meeting. So we ended up with only two. I think the Bishopric is working on calling a ride coordinator and it would really help. We asked one couple today if they could give the YSA in Mississauga rides and they said sure. Another advisor who had never been asked to give someone a ride took a young man home when the Elders asked him. I believe there are others willing to help we just need to put together a program.
My son-in-law, Scott Crossley, was able to cut the tie between AT&T and me today. In fact, they gave him an extra Gig of data for the same price he had been paying. He said he should have cut me off sooner!! I wish he could have. Anyway, I feel relieved to be done with those @#$^%&*!!
Well I had better close for now. Hope your Sabbath Day was blessed. Love to everyone and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Saturday 5 December 2015
December 5, 2015
Bonnie: We just got back from taking a car to some missionaries and bringing a truck back to the mission office. It's almost 10:00 pm. I'll let Bob tell about that. Last night we had our friends from our Branch in Temiskaming spend the night, Brad and his daughter Kayla. Kayla had to take the SAT this morning and because the computer is right next to her bedroom, we didn't want to keep her up by using it. It was wonderful because Brad brought homemade spaghetti sauce, noodles, salad, bread sticks, and the best part, his mother's homemade butter tarts for dessert! We were barely home 5 minutes from the office when they showed up. Another wonderful thing about it is that there are left-overs, so I don't have to cook much this week. After dinner, Kayla studied for her test and we went to the temple to do sealings. Brad had some important ones to do, (though they all are!) and Bob had four from two years ago to do. It was a great way to spend the evening!
And today was a fun day for me because I had no cooking requirements (we went to Flips for a late breakfast) and the apartment is presentable as far as cleanliness. So, I went shopping!
I will let Bob finish up. May all of us feel the Savior's love for us tomorrow as we partake of the sacrament (the heart of the Sabbath, according to Sister Marriott). I love you all!
PS: Happy Birthday, Lori! And congratulations to Magnolia HS for winning the State Championship!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Final score: Magnolia 62 - East Hardy 0. I don't understand this one. Last week East Hardy ran over St. Marys, who lost to Magnolia earlier this year. The Magnolia -St. Marys game wasn't that much of a blowout. Sometimes that funny shaped ball takes wierd bounces.
Had to go get the pickup and trailer from the Ossington Zone leaders tonight. They moved out of their apartment and into another one today. Google said about 63 minutes. But the route went down the Don Valley "Parking Lot". I knew that on Saturday night at about 6:45 traffic wouldn't be that bad!! Wrong again. I guess that is why it's called a 'Parking Lot'. They have a real good design. There is an HOV lane on the left side of the highway. (You don't think it's necessary that I tell you which side of the road the HOV lane is on? Found an HOV lane on the right side of the street later tonight!) Anyway, the HOV lanes splits into 2 lanes with one lane going to the 401 route. The HOV lane for the Don Valley Parking lot comes to a screeching halt and cars have to merge into a lane on the right. On the other side of the road a right lane is also ending so that lane has to merge left. You can guess what happens. The guy that designed this road had to put a lot of thought into 'how can I make this a permanent bottleneck???' He did a great job. And an HOV lane on the right side of the road! I have never seen that before. Don't know who thought that one up. It's a real big help with the buses stopping to load/unload every couple of blocks and people whipping out from behind the bus into the regular traffic lane.
Another thing the First Mate told me tonight. The Elders go to the public libraries to receive and send emails on Mondays. They have to take a letter with them from the Mission Office saying they live at such and such address or the library won't let them use their computers. So much for 'public' libraries.
And the final thing to make my day. My 2 year contract with AT&T ends today. They told me on November 11th to call them today, December 5, if I wanted to cancel my contract without an early termination fee. And being that I want to get as far away from AT&T as I possibly can I was more than willing to call them today. Funny thing happened though, they won't let me cancel the phone unless Scott Crossley calls them and puts a new security code on the account! Needless to say I think the AT&T service rep, Carlos, completely understands exactly how I feel about his company.
Enough rambling for now. Love to everyone. Hope your weekend is going great. Good night brother.
Dad/Bob
And today was a fun day for me because I had no cooking requirements (we went to Flips for a late breakfast) and the apartment is presentable as far as cleanliness. So, I went shopping!
I will let Bob finish up. May all of us feel the Savior's love for us tomorrow as we partake of the sacrament (the heart of the Sabbath, according to Sister Marriott). I love you all!
PS: Happy Birthday, Lori! And congratulations to Magnolia HS for winning the State Championship!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Final score: Magnolia 62 - East Hardy 0. I don't understand this one. Last week East Hardy ran over St. Marys, who lost to Magnolia earlier this year. The Magnolia -St. Marys game wasn't that much of a blowout. Sometimes that funny shaped ball takes wierd bounces.
Had to go get the pickup and trailer from the Ossington Zone leaders tonight. They moved out of their apartment and into another one today. Google said about 63 minutes. But the route went down the Don Valley "Parking Lot". I knew that on Saturday night at about 6:45 traffic wouldn't be that bad!! Wrong again. I guess that is why it's called a 'Parking Lot'. They have a real good design. There is an HOV lane on the left side of the highway. (You don't think it's necessary that I tell you which side of the road the HOV lane is on? Found an HOV lane on the right side of the street later tonight!) Anyway, the HOV lanes splits into 2 lanes with one lane going to the 401 route. The HOV lane for the Don Valley Parking lot comes to a screeching halt and cars have to merge into a lane on the right. On the other side of the road a right lane is also ending so that lane has to merge left. You can guess what happens. The guy that designed this road had to put a lot of thought into 'how can I make this a permanent bottleneck???' He did a great job. And an HOV lane on the right side of the road! I have never seen that before. Don't know who thought that one up. It's a real big help with the buses stopping to load/unload every couple of blocks and people whipping out from behind the bus into the regular traffic lane.
Another thing the First Mate told me tonight. The Elders go to the public libraries to receive and send emails on Mondays. They have to take a letter with them from the Mission Office saying they live at such and such address or the library won't let them use their computers. So much for 'public' libraries.
And the final thing to make my day. My 2 year contract with AT&T ends today. They told me on November 11th to call them today, December 5, if I wanted to cancel my contract without an early termination fee. And being that I want to get as far away from AT&T as I possibly can I was more than willing to call them today. Funny thing happened though, they won't let me cancel the phone unless Scott Crossley calls them and puts a new security code on the account! Needless to say I think the AT&T service rep, Carlos, completely understands exactly how I feel about his company.
Enough rambling for now. Love to everyone. Hope your weekend is going great. Good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Thursday 3 December 2015
December 3, 2015
Bonnie: It's just before 10 and Bob barely got back from making an extra trip back to the office. He'll explain when he writes. I've just finished cleaning the apartment because we are having guests tomorrow! Our friend from Temiskaming Branch, Brad Suave, and his daughter will be staying the night with us. She is taking the SAT Saturday in Toronto. They will leave after that so it will be a quick visit, unfortunately. Anyway, Bob says that Brad will be bringing dinner with him! That sounds wonderful to me.
It was a good day at the office and I was able to accomplish much. Zone Conferences are next week, starting Wednesday, so I have to be prepared Tuesday with the supply orders, ESL supplies and all of the Christmas packages for each zone. Tomorrow we will be getting all of the packages straight. Many packages will need their new zone put upon them because of transfers. It will be great to have the help of the Cannon's!
I will let Bob finish up. I hope all of you have had a wonderful day today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I am taking a few pieces of furniture downtown in the morning. Going right back to the Toronto Stake Center where I went Tuesday. Going to try a different route this time. Since I'm going to be at the Stake Center I went back to the office to get some accounting records to store there. We don't have room for them. The Canadian law requires us to keep financial records for 7 years. If I see anything before 2009 tomorrow I'm bringing it back and getting rid of it.
I feel like I am trying to get a cold. Have felt this way all day, but I seem just slightly better. Hope it passes without too much trouble. We don't have time to be sick!!
Called the computer guy in Utah about my hard drive today. I don't think he ever mailed it. I asked if I sent someone to pick it up could they get it. He said he would have it ready Monday. Ronee wanted to know what I wanted for Christmas and I told her I wanted her to pick up the hard drive and mail it. So she is going to go get it for me. I just hope he gets it ready.
Well I'm turning in. Hopefully I can sleep all night tonight. Last night I woke up after 3 with the total comforter on top of me. I was burning up. I can't imagine how I got the whole thing on me.
No one guessed when we would get snow by the way. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
It was a good day at the office and I was able to accomplish much. Zone Conferences are next week, starting Wednesday, so I have to be prepared Tuesday with the supply orders, ESL supplies and all of the Christmas packages for each zone. Tomorrow we will be getting all of the packages straight. Many packages will need their new zone put upon them because of transfers. It will be great to have the help of the Cannon's!
I will let Bob finish up. I hope all of you have had a wonderful day today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I am taking a few pieces of furniture downtown in the morning. Going right back to the Toronto Stake Center where I went Tuesday. Going to try a different route this time. Since I'm going to be at the Stake Center I went back to the office to get some accounting records to store there. We don't have room for them. The Canadian law requires us to keep financial records for 7 years. If I see anything before 2009 tomorrow I'm bringing it back and getting rid of it.
I feel like I am trying to get a cold. Have felt this way all day, but I seem just slightly better. Hope it passes without too much trouble. We don't have time to be sick!!
Called the computer guy in Utah about my hard drive today. I don't think he ever mailed it. I asked if I sent someone to pick it up could they get it. He said he would have it ready Monday. Ronee wanted to know what I wanted for Christmas and I told her I wanted her to pick up the hard drive and mail it. So she is going to go get it for me. I just hope he gets it ready.
Well I'm turning in. Hopefully I can sleep all night tonight. Last night I woke up after 3 with the total comforter on top of me. I was burning up. I can't imagine how I got the whole thing on me.
No one guessed when we would get snow by the way. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Wednesday 2 December 2015
December 2, 2015
Bob: Not much happened today. Just taking care of loose ends from the transfers. Started packing up the accounting records for 2014. Going to put them in storage. We are supposed to save 7 years worth, but I'm not sure where 2011 - 2013 are stored. Will have to go back to Toronto Stake Center and look for them.
Scheduled the lease signing for the new Vertica apartment for tomorrow. We'll see if they show up this time. This will be my 3rd trip there to sign the lease.
Weather is still holding. We are hovering just around freezing. The Canadians seem surprised that we don't have any snow yet, but they don't know the power of Bonnie's prayers. We'll see how long it takes before we get some permanent snow. Anyone want to venture a guess???? Give me a comment.
We came home early and have spent the night at home. I have done some accounting things on the computer while Bonnie is working on Christmas cards among her chores.
Going to call it a day. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It was a good day today, although there were some surprises. We had to pay $88.97 for a package for one of the sisters! Mom did everything right, such as saying it was a gift and the value was under $60.00. I don't know why Customs charged for it, but they did. I finally got through to someone at Canada Post and they said to appeal it by filling out an E-14 form that I could get at the post office. Right!!! The post office people didn't know what it was. So, I guess I need to get someone else on the phone. I will contest this for sure. Then, just as we were about to sit down for lunch, a sister came in with Christmas cards of every missionary in the mission. But, because transfers were yesterday many of the addresses were wrong. So, we went through all of them, putting the correct zone on them. It took about an hour.
One nice thing is that I will be turning over the First Aid kits to the Cannon's. It think it's an appropriate assignment. And it will give Sister Cannon a concrete responsibility. It's been great to have them in the office to help out.
MLC has been cancelled as far as having any of the Zone Leaders coming to the office for supplies tomorrow. That has been such a relief. There is a lot to do for the Zone Conferences next week, though, such as taking all of the Christmas packages there. And supplies. And ESL stuff. It will be good to get the packages delivered, that's for sure.
Well, it's time for bed. My love to all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Scheduled the lease signing for the new Vertica apartment for tomorrow. We'll see if they show up this time. This will be my 3rd trip there to sign the lease.
Weather is still holding. We are hovering just around freezing. The Canadians seem surprised that we don't have any snow yet, but they don't know the power of Bonnie's prayers. We'll see how long it takes before we get some permanent snow. Anyone want to venture a guess???? Give me a comment.
We came home early and have spent the night at home. I have done some accounting things on the computer while Bonnie is working on Christmas cards among her chores.
Going to call it a day. Love to all and good night brother.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It was a good day today, although there were some surprises. We had to pay $88.97 for a package for one of the sisters! Mom did everything right, such as saying it was a gift and the value was under $60.00. I don't know why Customs charged for it, but they did. I finally got through to someone at Canada Post and they said to appeal it by filling out an E-14 form that I could get at the post office. Right!!! The post office people didn't know what it was. So, I guess I need to get someone else on the phone. I will contest this for sure. Then, just as we were about to sit down for lunch, a sister came in with Christmas cards of every missionary in the mission. But, because transfers were yesterday many of the addresses were wrong. So, we went through all of them, putting the correct zone on them. It took about an hour.
One nice thing is that I will be turning over the First Aid kits to the Cannon's. It think it's an appropriate assignment. And it will give Sister Cannon a concrete responsibility. It's been great to have them in the office to help out.
MLC has been cancelled as far as having any of the Zone Leaders coming to the office for supplies tomorrow. That has been such a relief. There is a lot to do for the Zone Conferences next week, though, such as taking all of the Christmas packages there. And supplies. And ESL stuff. It will be good to get the packages delivered, that's for sure.
Well, it's time for bed. My love to all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 1 December 2015
December 1, 2015
Bob: Well transfers have come and gone with problems surfacing. To begin with, the A/Ps and I spent so much time making sure the Elders/Sisters transferring to a bus pass area got the money they needed that we forgot about the Elders/Sister not transferring that still need bus pass money. Discovered this morning that I had not given them any money. Had to make an adjustment today so I hope it hits their cards in the morning.
Secondly, there were some new threesomes created. Some of them only have 2 beds!! A/Ps were scrambling tonight to see if they could find beds in their Zones already. May have to make some deliveries tomorrow or Thursday. Ossington Zone needs the truck and cargo van Thursday to move 2 sets of missionaries into their new apartments.
Elder Cannon and I went to the Toronto Stake Center and picked up the missionaries transferring out of that Zone. We were about 45 minutes late because of the traffic. Then when he took the missionaries who were transferring into the Zone back they had to wait on a Sister that was 2 hours late. On the way back he got lost and didn't get back till after 4:00.
Other than those few things it has been a pretty good day. The weather wasn't too cold thankfully because it drizzled most of the day. A little cooler and it would have turned to snow. We went to Institute and it rained on us both directions.
Time to turn in. Love to all and good night brother.
Bonnie sends her love.
Dad/Bob
Secondly, there were some new threesomes created. Some of them only have 2 beds!! A/Ps were scrambling tonight to see if they could find beds in their Zones already. May have to make some deliveries tomorrow or Thursday. Ossington Zone needs the truck and cargo van Thursday to move 2 sets of missionaries into their new apartments.
Elder Cannon and I went to the Toronto Stake Center and picked up the missionaries transferring out of that Zone. We were about 45 minutes late because of the traffic. Then when he took the missionaries who were transferring into the Zone back they had to wait on a Sister that was 2 hours late. On the way back he got lost and didn't get back till after 4:00.
Other than those few things it has been a pretty good day. The weather wasn't too cold thankfully because it drizzled most of the day. A little cooler and it would have turned to snow. We went to Institute and it rained on us both directions.
Time to turn in. Love to all and good night brother.
Bonnie sends her love.
Dad/Bob
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