May 31, 2016

Bob: First mate is already in bed. She said to tell everyone hello. We had a short day at the office. Left around 4:00 to go see the Blue Jays play the Yankees. Turned out really well. Jays won 4 - 1.
Traffic was terrible getting there as there are 2 places where a lane ends and traffic has to merge. So they are both bottlenecks. Got parked at 6:00. Coming home was pretty easy though. Hit the freeway in about 10 minutes and then is was smooth sailing.
We have to be at the office tomorrow morning at 7:00 for the MLC breakfast so I am turning in. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

President Clayton took this picture at the game (Sister Clayton in front, Ericksons, us & Cannons

May 30, 2016

Bonnie: It's been a very long day today, but I got lots of things done. And, with Sister Cannon's help and Sister Youngberg's help I put together the MLC orders for 9 zones. The one that's left is Brampton Zone, which is a big one. We'll do that one first thing in the morning. We left about 7:30 tonight, and still didn't get  home until about 8:30 so I had a real late dinner!! (We stopped at Wendy's for Bob.)
We found out today that the Clayton's will be going with us to watch the Blue Jays and Yankees play tomorrow night. We are taking two cars. The Clayton's are taking the Cannon's and we are taking the Erickson's. We hope we won't be out too late because 7 am will come early Wednesday morning. That's when we need to be at the office to do our waffles. It will be our last MLC. As I've said before, I love MLCs. It's so neat hearing the missionaries sing for one thing. But I like the fun we have with the missionaries. What a wonderful bunch of young men and women we have in our mission!
It's about time for bed, so I will sign off. I hope all of you have had a great day and an even better night!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: I got a lot done also, but you would never know it by looking at my desk. There are 3 or 4 things I have on my desk that need to be finished, but something else has to happen before I finish each one. I just leave everything in sight so I don't forget about it!!
Tomorrow should be fun at the game, but getting home might be a problem. Then getting up and out to the Mission Office at 7 will be a REALLY BIG problem. I figure a short nap around 9 AM will probably be appropriate. I'm glad I have a door on my office!!!! It should come in handy then.
Well I am getting drowsier by the minute. I guess it's time to turn the lights out. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 29, 2016

Bob: Very nice day weather wise. It is like summer has started. Apartment is finally cooling down real nicely. We'll need the apartment cool because the lowest predicted high the next 10 days is 72. We want it to heat up outside, however, so when we go north the flies will be gone!! Looking like that will work out.
Had a small crowd at church today as a lot of the YSA were either in Kirkland or Palmyra for YSA Conferences. Been several updates on Facebook. Looks like they had a great time.
We only had one to pick up today so we left a little later than usual. Didn't work out as we got there after the meeting had started. We had the chorister with us so he missed the first hymn.
Well we're getting ready for bed. Hope everyone has had a great Sabbath. My nap this afternoon sure helped. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It was a wonderful Sabbath Day, made even better because I was able to talk to Misty, my eldest daughter. It sounds like things are beginning to wind down for her and her family.
I read something I really like in the  April Ensign tonight about obedience. It is from a talk by Elder Kim B. Clark at BYUI. This is a summary of a portion of it: obedience of the heart and soul embraces all of who we are--behavior, actions, desires, diligence and love. That kind of obedience connects us to Christ in a powerful way and brings His Spirit, love, power and joy into our lives. The Lord requires of us obedience that is exact, willing. and deep. He wants obedience of the whole heart and soul. The great key to developing heart-and-soul obedience is to be obedient in small and simple things. This brings the Spirit into our lives and strengthens our faith in Christ and our resolve to do His will. It opens our hearts to Him and blesses us with the strength and discipline to withstand temptations. I encourage all to read this talk. It's excellent.
With that written it is late and I need to get ready for a long day tomorrow, preparing for MLC. We wont's be staying late on Tuesday night because we have a surprise for our husbands for Father's Day. The office couples will be going to a Blue Jays/NY Yankees game on that night!! It will be really fun, especially if everything is ready for MLC the next day.
My love to all of you--
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 28, 2016

Bob: 28 years ago Bonnie and I started our journey. Who knew we would end up in Canada!! The journey has had many surprises and who knows what lies ahead, But I'm sure loving the trip with her. We didn't have any big celebration today, but I look at her when she's not looking and wonder what I would ever do without her. Hope we have many years ahead of us.
We had to go to the office today (what a way to celebrate). Bonnie worked on MLC flyers and I took the items we picked up at Algate's yesterday and put them in the storage shed with some other items we are taking with us to Temiskaming. It sure looks like we will end up renting a small truck to take things up with us. May have to get another driver and companion!
The apartment building turned on the air conditioning a day or two ago and never posted a notice that they were doing it. I have had it on full blast for about 11 hours and the temperature in our apartment has dropped from 26°C to 24°C (that's 75.2). Don't know if it will ever get real cool in here. Bonnie is probably comfortable, but I'm still looking for a few more degrees cooler.
Went to the movies with the Erickson's tonight. Saw 'Captain America - Civil War'. Bonnie said Captain American won as he showed forgiveness. It was pretty good, but I think there is more to come.
Better close this down as it is after 11. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  Our life together has been an amazing ride, with its ups and downs. How I love this guy from his beautiful little town of Reader, West Virginia.  He was an answer to the prayers of a single Mom with six children, that's for sure. How blessed we were in finding each other. We continue to find joy in doing things together and pray it will continue for a very long time!
Today we accomplished a lot and ended it with a good movie. What a beautiful day. And hopefully, tomorrow will be even better. We only have to pick up one YSA in the morning. Many of the YSAs are at a Conference in Kirtland, Ohio this week-end. There may be only a few at church tomorrow because of it. One important thing we will be doing is asking the missionaries in Mississauga to  help contact inactive YSAs. I feel it is extremely important to try to finish what we have started there. May all of us have a very special day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 27, 2016

Bonnie:  It's about 10:00 and we just got home from going to Walkerton where a senior couple has been assigned. They are going home Tuesday and wanted to know if Bob wanted/needed any of their furniture and other stuff. We did find some things we can use in our apartment up north so I am happy we went. We have almost everything figured out except what dining room table to use. It depends on how much room is in the trailer/truck after the necessary stuff like the bed, dressers, couch, end-tables and bookshelf. I think it's going to be crazy getting it all done because the other senior couple who is taking our place in the office will be moving in June 8th. They will be using much of our furniture. We'll still have the bed but no living room items! I'm sure it will all work out because we'll probably share the stuff for awhile. The couch Bob wants us to have is a blue plaid so this new apartment will look very different than the one we have now. There are certain advantages to having an "in" with the apartment guy in our mission!
Today I got some things done at the office but we will have to go in tomorrow--our "P-day". It will really help if we do that as we prepare for MLC,
Time to sign off. Sweet dreams, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: It was about 2 hours each way to Walkerton. It was through the country and very pretty. Saw several large farms. Many fields have something growing in them that was about a foot tall and dark green. Not sure what it is. It looks very lush.
I think we are going to have to hire Atlas Van Lines to move everything to Temiskaming. Not sure how we will get everything up there.
Bonnie wants to go to the office tomorrow, but it will have to be later in the day. I am sleeping in tomorrow morning and walking first.
The weather has been very hot the past couple or three days. Cools a little at night, but not much. Walking at 7:00 AM with only a short sleeve t-shirt. It was in the high 80s today. Don't know when the air conditioning will be turned on here in our apartment.
Well, I've got to go. Love to all and good night brothers.
Tomorrow is our anniversary. 28 years and counting. Seems like we're just getting started. I love this lady.
Dad/Bob

MAY 26, 2016

Bonnie:  It's been a very full day. I am still overwhelmed with the amount of work I need to do before MLC Wednesday. And  tomorrow we have been asked to drive to a senior couple's house about two hours away to get two air conditioners, supplies and some other things. They are going home the end of the week. We'll leave about 2:00. I  hope that gives me time to finish our pocket cards which contain all of the missionary's phone numbers by zone. It's a handy thing, but very time consuming to put together. I've spent almost two hours on it already and it is only half-way done. Then, the printing and laminating is also tricky. Of course the supply orders for MLC are coming in, slowly but surely. They were supposed to be to me by 3:00 today, but I only have received the lists for 4 out of the 10 zones.I will not be able to order their name-tags tomorrow without the list. I already have a huge list of name-tags that need to be ordered in the morning before we leave.
We saw several missionaries today and it was fun talking to them. Many of the missionaries are totally surprised that we have been transferred to be MLS missionaries up north. They look almost panicked, and ask if someone will be taking our place in the office. They are so cute and wonderful. I love them all dearly! There are some very important things we have to finish up before our move. The biggest thing is our work with the Mississauga missionaries to contact the inactive YSAs. We have not done a very good job in this area, but want to finish up in a good way. I want to leave feeling that we have done our best with this assignment.
I love you all,
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Got an apartment lease signed for the Wolfley's today. Can't get in it till the 9th though, and they arrive on the 8th. I was hoping to have some things moved in when they got here, but it's not going to work out that way.
Bonnie forgot to mention that we did the shopping and laundry tonight.
Got to go. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 24/25, 2016

Bob: (24th) Up early today and off to the BSC. Had to be there by 7:30 to train the new missionaries. The last training session we will be involved with I believe. This is probably something I should let my replacement know about. Haven't written anything about it yet. Will add to the list tomorrow.
Very busy in the office today as missionaries started dropping in around 10:30 and they just kept coming. There were phone problems, receipts for reimbursement, and apartment problems. At 2:15 we had to leave for the temple session for returning missionaries. It was a great session with 14 returning missionaries 6 missionary couples, and Shannan and Tony. After the temple we had dinner at home and just talked about a family reunion. Bonnie will have more on this later.
Got to get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  Yesterday was a crazy day, as Bob has written. It was so busy in the morning, I couldn't help all the missionaries unless they wanted to wait their turn. It was very hard to get much done otherwise because of the distractions. I managed to do a Staples order, however. As is often the case, just after I ordered some stuff, someone wanted something else from Staples! Oh, well.  Shannan came with lunch for Bob from Wendy's, which made him happy. Just before we had to leave for the temple, Tony was dropped off so we could go over at the same time. The session was great and afterwards, we stayed for pictures. I sent Tony and  Shannan to the store for some things for dinner. By the time we got  home things were cooking nicely. And we had some delicious Ben and Jerry's ice cream for dessert!
Today we had a nice surprise. Elder Ganowsky came by with his family. Of course, he is now known as Garrison. He was one of our first APs. What fun it was to see him and meet his family. Then, I came home with the Erickson's. Bob will stay until about 9, I figure. He has lots to catch up on. I've enjoyed the evening listening to music and doing last night's dishes! And figuring out food for next week. I need these breaks. I'm feeling overwhelmed because MLC is next week. I have the usual planning to do. I wish I knew how much stuff to order! That is always the hard part.
We  have also enjoyed the summer-like weather this week. It's supposed to stay warm through the week-end, I think. It's great.
Happy spring, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: (25th) Been a real long day. Didn't take time for a lunch break. Just kept plugging away until dinner time. Left the office at 9:40 and had to stop at the post office to mail the rent checks. I managed to get our apartment application sent and the deposit check sent. Also got the application approved and check sent for the new apartment for the Temiskaming Elders. Sent an Intent to Vacate letter to Sister Powers, whose home we have been renting in Temiskaming. Bonnie helped me write that letter. All the missionaries have been paid their reimbursements and charged for the items they purchased. Paid some vendors. The rest are logged and ready to pay in the morning. Need to go over the medical payments I have reimbursed with Sister Cannon so she can file a claim with the insurance company. And we got our car license renewal before they expire. I was worried they wouldn't get here in time.
Tomorrow I have to meet with Vertica to sign the lease for the new apartment. I'm hoping to get everything done so I can take a trip to Hanover on Friday. The couple up there is going home next week and there are a few things we need to bring back to the office. It's about 2 hours up so we could leave in the afternoon and get home before it's real late.
Time to hit the hay. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 23, 2016

Bob: Very long day. Went to the office for a meeting with Clayton's. Got some work done, but far behind now. Picked up Shannan and Tony about 1:00. Went to Casa Loma. Left there and headed to Niagara Falls. Ate dinner there at 5:30. Looked at the Falls and started home. Stopped for ice cream. Did not get home till almost 10:50. QEW was slow and go for about 50 kilometers.
Very tired. Going to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 22, 2016

Bob: Another nice day and at the end of the day Bonnie had a nice surprise. Shannan and Tony showed up at the door. Bonnie was quite surprised to say the least. They had been planning it for over a month, but we kept it as a surprise for her.
Church was good today, but we had to adapt some for Munch 'n Mingle. The gym floor is being refinished and cannot be used. The food was set up in the foyer and we had people sitting everywhere inside and outside eating. Looked a lot like chaos, but hey, whatever works.
We'll have to get up early and get to the office so we can meet up with Shannan and Tony about noon. We're going to go see Casa Loma and then drive to Niagara Falls, traffic permitting. Depending on the time we finish at Casa Loma we may have trouble getting out of town.
Well, got to get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: One of my best days yet! What a surprise to see Shannan and Tony standing at our door! It will make for a great day tomorrow and Tuesday. Wednesday they fly out. I don't know if traffic will be better or worse because it's Victoria Day tomorrow. It's the day that they celebrate the Queen's birthday here in Canada. Most everything is closed. Bob has some important work to do in the office tomorrow for the missionaries who are going home Wednesday. So, we will be spending a little time at the office in the morning. I know there will be several things I can do, too, but I want to spend as much time as possible with Shannan and Tony. We'll see what develops.
What a wonderful day! Love to all of you!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 21, 2016

Bob: Up bright and early at 8:00!! Went for a 45 minute walk at 9:30 with Elder Budgett. Then we went to the St. Lawrence Market with Elder and Sister Budgett. It is fun to walk around the market and look at all the different food products for sale. Finally bought Hungarian cabbage rolls and Colombian arepas for lunch. Everything was very good.
We stopped at Casa Loma and took some pictures of the outside. It was built by Henry Mill Pellatt in 1911. He and his wife had to move out by 1923 as some bad investments and the Province expropriated his electrical power generating business and his aircraft manufacturing business. It is a pretty impressive residence, the largest ever built in Canada. I saw on the WEB where they have wedding/receptions there. The cost starts at $135 per person.
This evening we went to Canelli's for dinner with 9 other couples. It was a great evening. 3 other couples couldn't be there.
Well I had better get to bed. Hope everyone has been enjoying their weekend. Looking forward to tomorrow and attending another baptism. That's 3 weeks in a row. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It's been a fun day. I love going to the St. Lawrence Market! And Casa Loma is an impressive, huge castle in downtown Toronto. For Bob's birthday/Father's Day we will tour the inside of it. Today we just walked around the outside. Tonight, we had dinner with many of the senior couples, delicious Italian food! What could make for a better day?
Tomorrow we will be attending another baptism at 10:00. Then, I will be baking three chicken/ salsa/ rice casseroles between the baptism and Sacrament meeting at noon. There just isn't time to do it before we have to leave. It will make a great feast at Munch and Mingle.
May we all feast tomorrow, not only on delicious food, but also the words of Christ as we honor Him on the Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

At the entrance to Casa Loma

Front view of Casa Loma

Rear view of Casa Loma

Bonnie at St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market

May 20, 2016

Bob: Got back from Temiskaming about 5:15. It is 300 miles to Haileybury, the town where we will be living. We are 5 minutes or less from the Church and as far as I know, no YSA to pick up!! We were quite pleased with all the apartments that we looked at, but as often happens, the first one you look at wins out. I think it won because it was empty. The others that were available had someone else in them. Also, the one we chose has an apartment washer and dryer in it that they are leaving for us. And the whole building is air conditioned. The other apartment had a window air conditioner. In addition the one we chose is $150 cheaper per month. We were able to sign a 6 month lease so we will be able to cancel the lease when we leave if necessary. The other unit wanted a 12 month lease. So all in all I feel really good about it. We are close to the downtown waterfront. Walmart is about 15 minutes away and there is a community pool where I can swim some laps. Looking forward to doing that again.
We are both tired from driving up and back in 2 days. I am starting to wonder how many days it will take us to get home next spring if 300 miles tires us out so much. But neither one of us slept well the last 2 nights. I think Wednesday night I was just anxious to get up and get going. Last night we shared a double bed. It appears we have grown to like our king size bed way too much!!
We looked at the apartment Thursday when we got there. Afterwards we went to the New Liskeard city park (a picture below) for ice cream with Brad and his two daughters, Kayla and Emma. Brad brought his 3 legged dog, Chase along. That dog can run last and swim well considering he has only one front leg. Brag and Kayla kept throwing a stick for him to fetch. Sometimes they would throw it into Lake Temiskaming. He never slowed down at the water's edge. Just dove in and went after it.
We took a nice long walk on their boardwalk that follows the shore line for almost a mile I would say. It then ties into a side street and then the main highway between New Liskeard and Haileybury. The road has 3 ' markers sticking up out of the pavement that separate the bike/walking lane from the main street. If you look in the top left above the dandelions you can barely see one sticking up.
Well I have to hit the sack. Need some rest. Walking in the morning with Elder Budgett. Then all 4 of us are going to the St. Lawrence Market, which will be more walking. All the Senior missionaries are then getting together at Canelli's Italian Eatery for dinner.
The picture of the apartment building is of the front. We are on the back side, #106, just below ground level. Not much of a view for us, but the apartment is very bright and we can go outside to see the lake and beautiful surroundings.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: The picture below is interesting to me. In Canada, people are not allowed to use weed-killer on the dandelions because of how it affects the environment. That means there are lots of them in the early spring.
Last night it was really fun to watch Chase fetch the sticks that Kayla and Brad threw. He didn't care if it was into the water or not! He does not seem phased at all that he has only one front paw. I wish I had his energy.
We have had a tiring day, but productive. I think the apartment will work well for us. Getting the furniture in order will be a challenge, though. And, did you notice that there is a dishwasher? How cool is that! Bob is quite happy about it,since he is in charge of doing the dishes. We got home and then went shopping and after that did the wash. We are quite ready to sleep in our own bed tonight. Tomorrow will be a fun day doing things with our good friends here on Silver Maple Court.
Good night to all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Ontario's most prominent spring flower

Brad's Dog - Chase (He has just one front leg, but he swims well)

A view behind the Haileybury City park concession stand

367 Sutherland Way, Haileybury, Ontario (Our new home in July)

Bonnie's new kitchen and entry door to the pantry

May 17, 2016

Bonnie: Another good day. I finally received  one of my Book of Mormon orders so that was great. Of course, I ordered more today so I will have plenty for transfers next week. I also finished another project-- that of putting/replacing the labels on the files in the two file drawers behind my desk. I've spent several days working on this. I figure it will help my replacement when she comes.
The best part of the day was when the APs brought in three boxes of Krispy Kremes. They do that the week before transfers to help them stay "motivated". It's lots of hard work for them. So, while they weren't looking, Sister Cannon said we should hide them. I jumped up and hid all three boxes, very much in plain sight if someone looked closely. When they got back, I heard the newest AP say, "Where are the doughnuts? I put them right here!" He said this softly, but we could feel his consternation. Elder Gleave immediately went around asking us all about the missing doughnuts. They proceeded to look but couldn't find them. A little later, when they were out of the office for a minute, I hurriedly took them and put them back on their desks. It was so much fun! They are so cute to tease! Sister Cannon and I finally admitted that it was us.
We are having second thoughts about renting the house in Cobalt from the member who is trying to sell it. It sounds like it is not in very good shape, maybe cold in the winter, with small rooms. So, Bob is looking for an apartment for us. Thankfully, he has the help of our good friends in the Branch. They are supportive. We'll see what happens. We may go up there this week, just to see what options are available to us. It would be a quick two-day trip. In fact, Bob said tonight that we may go Thursday!!
As he has written, IMOS was shut down church-wide last Friday afternoon, at least the financial part of it. Tonight when he got home he said that it was up and running!! They told him it would be probably Monday morning before it was back up, so this is wonderful! But, then he had a call from President Clayton tonight asking for the disk for an Elder who is going home before transfers (in fact, tomorrow). The disk contains all of the letters the Elder has written to the President during his mission. Bob forgot to do it. So, he just left (it's 10 pm) to go back to the office, burn the disk, and then drop it off at the mission home. It will be a late night for him, for sure.
Well, we hope everyone has had a very good day, enjoying the spring-like weather and doing the things that matter most. We love you all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie and Dad/Bob

PS: Tomorrow we will post some pictures that we took of Elder Gleave's going away party.

May 18, 2016

Bob: About last night. At 10:00 President Clayton called and asked if had Elder Muirhead's passport. I told him it was at the office. Well Elder Muirhead was scheduled to fly out at 8:00 am today. So I had to go to office and make up the CD of the Elder's letters written to President Clayton during his mission. Then I had to deliver that, the passport and some other items to the Mission Home so he would have them in the morning. Got to the Mission Home about 11:15 and President Clayton met me at the door. We both were wearing brightly colored and patterned leisure pants. He said we should get a picture of this!! I wish I had taken my camera or phone.

Well IMOS is back up and running. I ran a few things through last night and they went well. When I tried to print the checks this morning they crashed. However, SL fixed the problem in a couple hours. Things seem to be okay.
Went to work without my phone today. Had a peaceful day at work, but when I got home there were 8 messages. Most of them were repeats and insignificant though. One was from a set of Spanish Elders. So I called them. They didn't answer, but I got their voicemail. They rattled off a long message in Spanish and at the end said, "Gracias, chow!" So I left them a message. I said, "I listened to your message and didn't understand anything except the end where you said, thanks for the food!! Bonnie came apart laughing and said that's not what that means. I said I know, but they don't know. They called in a couple minutes laughing. Elder De Peiza said I was close, though.
Going to pack and get ready to go to Temiskaming tomorrow. It will be a quick trip, but it means a few days out of the office.
Found out today that when the Wolfley's get here on June 8th their apartment won't be ready. They won't be able to get in until the 9th. I am hoping that changes, but we'll see. Dealing with Vertica is just not easy.
After work tonight I got to go eat at Wendy's. Bonnie agreed to go this evening. We ate dinner with the Cannons. Had a good time visiting with them.
Well I have got to get busy. Have a great couple of days. We probably won't post anything tomorrow, but don't know for sure. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  Another rather peaceful day. A Staples order came in and I ordered some things for President Clayton from the Online Store. That was about it. We had lots of visits from missionaries, though. That's the part I really like. The candy jar was full today, and it was much appreciated by the Elders and Sisters.
I am anxious to go up to Temiskaming to check out the options for apartments there. I will write about the choices when we get back Friday night. I wonder about all kinds of details. It will be nice to have some of my questions answered.
May tomorrow be a great day for all of you, our friends and family!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Elder Gleave (May play basketball for UVU)

Elders Holt, Gleave, Forsyth

May 16, 2016

Bob: Kind of a slow day at the office except for our meeting with the Clayton's. Bills to pay and reimbursements to be made that are piling up. Not too many so far. I hope I can process them on Friday.
The weather was on the very cool side today and in the late afternoon and tonight it rained some. Suppose to clear up and get beautiful the rest of the week. Into the 60s and right on to the 70s.
We thought we going to go to FHE without anyone tonight, but Sean finally called. Then Victor, who hasn't been to anything in months called. On our way to get Sean, Jeremy called. So we ended up taking all 3 of them.
It was a relaxing evening. After the lesson the YSA had a spirited battle of floor hockey. Sister Finnigan, the Budgett's and us got to sit around and just chat. It was very nice.
Well, it's after 10 and I am yawning. Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Bonnie sends her love.
Bob/Dad

May 15, 2016

Bonnie:  What an interesting day today. In spite of several things going wrong, it was a great Sabbath! First of all, there was a baptism today and the "baptizee" was late. He did show up finally and the baptism occurred. Afterwards there were supposed to be refreshments in the kitchen. Well, we share the kitchen with two other wards, and there was all kinds of food there. The person in charge was not with us at the baptism and everyone else "responsible" were in Ward Council meeting. We called him on the phone and he told us it was the stuff in front of the microwave. Nothing was in front of the microwave, but we found what we thought he had brought. It worked out OK. Then, I went into the washroom and found a huge puddle of water on the floor. There was only one mop in the building. The first counselor took care of that, thankfully. Then, the heat was off in the chapel and some of the microphones didn't work.  In fact, we heard the beginning of Jeffrey R. Holland's "Face-to Face"! That was resolved. And then, the Bishop told me he wanted no interviews from 2 to 3, after I had set up 4 YSA appointments during that time. Thankfully, one of the Assistant Executive Secretaries took care of that for me. We have several interviews already set up for next Sunday. In spite of all the issues today, I enjoyed the company of the other Senior couples and the YSAs. I will really miss them.
We had chili for M & M, with lots left over that will be frozen for another Sunday. Sister Finnigan had "kits" set up for next week's meal for us to take home and fix. She plans really good meals. The best part of the day was saying good-bye to a Sister leaving for her mission early tomorrow morning. And we had another missionary who has just come home attend today. One of our talks was by a newly baptized young man. It was an excellent talk. What blessings there are in this ward.
In a few minutes we will go upstairs to attend our Sr.couple FHE. The Youngberg's will be telling us about their first mission, which was to Jordan. I am fascinated with how knowledge of the church in the middle east is growing. It will be a great end to a very good Sabbath Day. I hope all of you can say the same!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob:  FHE was great tonight. Elder and Sister Youngberg had a Power Point presentation of their mission in Amman, Jordan. It was very interesting because there is a lot of biblical history in Jordan. Afterwards the refreshments were terrific.
There were a few problems at church today, but it all turned out well. The one thing that didn't get corrected that we 'yanks' noticed the most was the lack of heat in the building. In Canada I guess you get used to it and go on. Thankfully by Munch 'n Mingle it had improved quite a bit.
We were planning a big going home party for Elder Gleave on Tuesday. Just found out a few minutes ago that the meeting with the Claytons and the party has been moved to Monday. Will have to buy whatever cake they have available tomorrow morning. So sad we can't have it decorated like we have done for the other A/Ps that went home. We like to put "Return with Honor".
Well it is time for bed. Hope everyone is well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 14, 2016

Bob: It was raining when we got up. When it quit I took a walk, but it started raining very lightly before I finished. It was just a light mist so it wasn't bad. Had my umbrella too.
There have been police all over the place since yesterday evening. I think a 17 year old young man got shot very near here. There is a van parked just down the street that is labeled 'Command Center'. Not sure what is going on but they have been around for 24 hours now.
Went to the temple today with the YSA. We had a very small crowd today. Several of them were in Montreal for a wedding. I think there only 7 brothers in the session. There were a lot more sisters.
Bonnie made lasagna today and fed 5 missionaries. Now she is working on chili for Munch 'n Mingle tomorrow. She is doing all the work. I'm just getting dish pan hands!!
Been enjoying the 10th Anniversary performance of Les Miserables on youtube. Very inspiring performance.
Well it's time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  Bob pretty well summed up our day. I will be busy tomorrow making sure all of the YSAs get into see the Bishop, Thankfully, I now have some good help. I even get to go into Sunday School and RS some. There is so much to plan for our move up north that it's keeping me busy thinking about it. The plan now is to make a short visit to see what we will need in this new house. Then, we can plan better to meet both our needs and the needs of the new office couple. It will be a challenge in many ways.
I hope everyone has an inspirational Sabbath Day tomorrow. We could have about 40 more YSAs tomorrow because the Bishop has invited all of the graduating seniors to our meeting. It will be awesome, I'm sure!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 13, 2016

Bob: Beautiful day after a heavy rain storm last night. It was raining when I awoke, but stopped before I went for a walk. Nice and sunny all day.
Went to the TSC (Toronto Stake Center) today to search the past accounting records for payments to a landlord. Found out we only have check stubs for the rent payments back to the end of 2013 when Elder Gillen took over. No one kept them before that. As a result we cannot verify payments to the landlord who says we owe him another payment. Guess we will end up just paying it.
After looking for the check stubs we went to lunch with 6 Elders. We were only planning on 2 Elders, but they had the other 4 in their van. Went to a real cheap Chinese place so it wasn't so bad. I'm still full from the lunch although Bonnie and I split a blizzard this evening.
First mate is in the kitchen getting things ready to cook. She has a big meal planned for tomorrow evening and she has to make a pot of chili for Munch 'n Mingle on Sunday. In addition we are going to a temple session tomorrow afternoon. Won't be much P-day "rest" this weekend.
Well I'm going to bed as I'm not feeling real well. Must have eaten too much today. Love to everyone and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It was another quiet day for which I am grateful. Tonight, we met the Cannon's at the food court across the street in the Mall and had DQ blizzards. It was quite enjoyable. The place we ate lunch at today was not that great as far as Chinese food goes, but the price is right. It cost us less than $45 to feed the 6 Elders and ourselves. Not bad!
 As Bob has written, I will be busy cooking and cleaning tomorrow. But I love having the missionaries over. I won't get the chance to have this many over after June. And it is almost Elder Gleave's last chance to eat at our place. In fact I need to order a cake for our good-bye party for him on Tuesday.
And now, it's time to write my good-byes. Have a good evening everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 12, 2016

Bob: Today was the day they shut down the Church's financial operating system. The original instructions called for all payment and checks to vendors be processed by 1:15 MST. Well this morning there began to be intermittent problems with the accounting system. Things wouldn't work as they were supposed to work. Some things ever disappeared off the screen. I started emailing the guy in Salt Lake, Mark A, that has been sending emails about the shut down. After some investigation they surmised that with everyone all over the world trying to get their final entries processed the servers were swamped. They started scrambling to keep things running. Then they announced that the shut down had been delayed for 30 extra minutes to give some make-up time. So at 1:40 I emailed him again that the President hadn't approved my all my entries. He emailed back to try him one more time. When the President didn't respond, Mark A said he would get his programmers to approve them. I kept watching but nothing happened. Then my phone rang. Mark said try clicking on local checks. I did and there were the approvals. He said he would stay on the line while I printed them. When I finished he said, "You have gotten special treatment today. The whole church financial shutdown has been delayed just so you could print your checks! I'll be in touch. Good-bye."
Took Bonnie out to Popeye's for lunch. I was really disappointed. Thought there would be more fish items on the menu. The shrimp we got was pretty good, but I didn't see anything else I would want to try. I don't think it is the exact same as the USA Popeye's.
Going to my favorite place tomorrow, the Toronto Stake Center. I'll try and get some pictures of it. The main road to it is the Don Valley Parkway (parking lot is more apt)!! We'll start a little late and maybe miss the heaviest traffic. Have some financial records to look for there. For lunch I'm taking Bonnie and the Ossington Zone Leaders out to Mulan's. Went there a couple weeks ago and it was pretty good.
We got the shopping and laundry done tonight. Tomorrow night should be free. Not sure what we'll be doing yet.
Better get ready for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  I am caught up on everything at the office except for one item. It's a nice feeling. Sister Cannon will be filling in for me tomorrow. I hope we can get back in time for me to complete everything.
I love it when we are able to finish both the wash and the shopping on the same night. It actually means we have a free night on Fridays. I would like to do an exchange at the Mall, but that is it. And, maybe there is a movie that we could see. I am planning on having the missionaries over for dinner on Saturday, and I hope we can attend the temple that day as well. That day is booked.
For the record, I like Popeye's. The shrimp was really good, as were the biscuits. We really are becoming connoisseurs of sorts! We certainly have our favorite places to eat.
I received a Mother's Day gift from Lori and  Scott today. I love the cards from Jackson, AJ and Gwynn, but the best part was receiving a picture of the entire family. I love it! Thank you,  Crossley's.
Sweet dreams, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bo

Our I Love You photo for the Claytons

nnie

May 11, 2016

Bob: Nice day at the office today. Got all the bills paid and the rent checks are ready to go out. Able to work a little on operating procedures. Tomorrow is the big day when the accounting system will go down. Hope to have everything paid before they pull the plug.
Elders closed down another apartment in Kitchener today. We don't have anything else going on now except the new apartment I am getting for the couple replacing Bonnie and I, plus a new apartment for the Elders in Temiskaming when Bonnie and I go up there. I hope that is it for a while.
Weather was very nice again. Should be two more days of it. Then rain.
Been walking in the mornings. The weather is just right for 2 shirts and my heavy sweatshirt. No sweat so far!! Things will heat up though.
Planning on going to the Toronto Stake Center Friday morning. We need to try and find as much payment history as possible for an apartment we just closed. They claim we are a month behind, but I think it is a mistake on their part. Another apartment had the same problem, but it was a mistake from the very first month that wasn't caught for years. The present problem goes back to September 2008. We may not have anything for 2008, but we'll look. Bonnie is going with me, plus the Ossington Zone Leaders will meet us there. Going to a Chinese restaurant for lunch afterward.
From Elder Holland: "You can have what you want, or you can have something better."
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: Today I was able to put away two supply orders, barely. I'm running out of room on my shelves! I figured out a way to add some Ilokano  materials which will be coming in soon. And it's even alphabetical, which makes me happy. But, I had to move the Japanese supplies to another place to do it. They are above the Chinese supplies, so it makes a little sense. I have to get creative to make room for everything.
One thing I neglected to do yesterday was to mention that I had my temple recommend interview with President Clayton. It was so neat to hear his counsel. He really knows the scriptures. He shared 4 scriptures about the atonement, all of which I have read many times, but not clearly understood. Then he counseled me to read Steven Robinson's book about the atonement. He said I should read that first, before I continue with Tad Callister's book "The Infinite Atonement". So, I will look into getting that book.
The next six weeks will be full of things to do as we pack up our belongings and furniture and say good-bye to Elder Gleave, our AP who is going home. Then, we will be saying good-bye to the Clayton's. I am so happy because we will get to meet the Shields, our new Mission President, on the 29th. They arrive the day before and the  Clayton's will bring them into the office that morning. The next day, very early in the morning, the Clayton's head for their home in Lehi, Utah. We will also leave that day for Temiskaming.
Well, have a good night everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

PS I learned this from Sister Cannon about what she called is the last beattitude: "Blessed are the flexible, for they shall bend but shall not break!"  I love it!

May 10, 2016

Bonnie:  I came home early tonight with Erickson's and have had a nice evening. I talked to Sister Cambridge about the house we will be renting in Cobalt. It's an old  home with small bedrooms and a "functional" kitchen. She suggested we call the Elders that live there and ask them to measure things so we know how big a bed to bring with us. It will be an adventure for sure!
Bob stayed late to begin writing procedures for the new financial secretary. He got home about 9:30, quite tired. I think we will go to bed early tonight!
Love to all,
Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Don't know if anyone reading our blog knew Ryan Cisar, but he died in a motorcycle accident yesterday. A couple of memorials for him are on Facebook.
Got started on the procedures tonight. Planning on working on them every Tuesday night until we leave. Want to leave Elder Wolfley as much information as possible. Would hate for him to have the problems I did when I started. There is lots to write up though. It will take time. With the accounting system down for 8 days I should have some extra time though.
More beautiful weather today. Supposed to be even better the next 2 days, then the rain shows up.
Sounds like our living quarters in Cobalt may not be as nice as we hoped. Got to think of a reason to make a delivery to the area so we can scout it out.
I wish everyone a good night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 9, 2016

Bob: Busy day at work. Trying to get everything paid as the accounting system will go down Thursday evening for 8 days. They think it will come back on line on a Friday. We will see how that goes.
Weather was beautiful again. I think winter is finally behind us. It'll be in the 60s all week except for the weekend when the rain is supposed to be here. We'll only see the 50s then.
Only had one person to pick up for FHE tonight, and he got a ride home with someone else. As our activity tonight we put together 10,000 packets that will be distributed throughout the Stake. We think it has something to do with a food bank, but we're not sure. I remember last year we did the same thing the very first FHE we attended. Our job was to count out small cards in groups of ten. They in turn were put into bags with other items. The seniors counted out 10,000 of the cards.
Because we didn't take Jeremy home we got home at 9:20. This is our earliest Monday night ever for FHE. Felt strange being home this early.
Found out today that our replacements aren't due here till June 8th. Looks to me like he is going to have about 10 days training and then go for it. We need to take a load of furniture to Cobalt on the 27th, return the 28th, and pack up and leave by the 30th. It will be a tough training regiment.
Well I had better get to bed. Hope everyone is well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: We had a great turn-out for FHE tonight. There was lots of laughter and teasing as everyone got down to work. But, we did it! Each plastic bag contains 10 more plastic bags plus two brochures telling about the food bank. I imagine each family or person will take several bags and pass them out to others to be filled with food for the food bank. It's a very worthwhile project.
I've been thinking about the wonderful phone calls I had yesterday with my children and grand-children. I have to say that I am so proud of them all. Our grandchildren are growing up so fast and doing amazing things. How I love each person in our family. This includes the wonderful men and women that have married into our family. You make our family complete.
It was a quiet day today and there was time to spare! I love days like this. It makes up for the crazy ones! I hope everyone had an easy-going day, too.
Love, Mom/Bonne

May 8, 2016

Bob: Hope everyone has had a beautiful Sabbath, and that each and every mother had a wonderful Mother's Day. Our day started early as we had to be to church by 10:00 for Vera's baptism. It was a lovely baptism, but didn't go quite as planned. The program was printed up, but a couple people didn't show up for their part and a couple of others changed parts. But it went off well.
For Munch 'n Mingle today the 2 Elders Quorums made taco salad for the sisters. We were worried we would run out of beans, cheese and guacamole, and we did, but the final stragglers got a little bit of everything.
We got home from church sometime between 4:30 and 5:00. I told Bonnie that I would like to take a short walk and a nap. So I laid down to think about it!! Guess which idea won out. Bonnie did something to cause me to awake about 6:45!! Feels real good though.
It was a nice day outside, but a little cooler than yesterday. I would take days like this all the time.
I remember several years ago getting the first computer in the New Martinsville Branch. It had WordPerfect as the word processing program. At the time I did not own a computer. It seemed like a good idea, though, that I learn something about it. So I started keeping a record of things I had read and heard about different subjects such as service, faith, baptism, etc. Eventually I accumulated several pages and continued to add to my collection. However, in time, other things took presidence and I quit. Today I revisited those pages and decided I need to begin adding to them. I hope in time it will be worthwhile to me and perhaps to someone else.
Time to go wash dishes and get ready for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It was wonderful to talk to all of my kids and some of the grandkids tonight. I have wonderful daughters and daughters-in-law, each one deserving of the best Mother's Day ever! It sounds like each has had a wonderful day, as I have.  But, it's now quite late so I will have to quit. My love to all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 7, 2016

Bob: Another beautiful day. Got up and took an hour's walk with just a t-shirt and light long sleeved shirt. It felt good outside. We then got ready and left about noon for the Outlet Mall at Niagara. Did a lot of walking and not much buying. Bonnie was looking for skirts, but I think they quit making them except for the short ones! Couldn't talk her into one of those. Found some long skirts, but most of them had deep slits up the sides. Ended up coming back home and stopping in at Hudsons Bay. They had some things that she was able to get. Then we went to Canellis for dinner. They were crowded tonight and the service wasn't nearly as good as the last time. Still enjoyed the eggplant though.
Well, I am going to hit the hay. Have a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It was a beautiful day, with a little bit of rain. The outlet mall we went to is about an  hour and 15 minutes away. It was crowded for Mother's Day, I guess. It was frustrating not being able to find the things I wanted there, yet a blessing that I found everything I needed at the mall across the street from us! It could have saved lots of time had I known this. Anyway, I've had a wonderful Mother's Day one day early this year. Tomorrow the  Elders Quorum will be making the Munch and Mingle food (except for the desserts) and cleaning up. And there will be a baptism before church. That is always a wonderful thing.
I hope all of our female friends and family will have a Happy Mother's Day tomorrow, and a special Sabbath as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 6, 2016

Bob: The most beautiful day yet of 2016. Temps got into the 70s. And we left work at 4:00. Had to deliver a security deposit for an apartment rental. Then we had to go to Costco to pick prescriptions up for Bonnie. I am glad we weren't doing regular shopping there. The place was crowded and the lines were long. Bonnie had 1 person in front of her at the pharmacy and it still took about 15 minutes.
Got the truck and trailer emptied today. Value Village took a lot of the items and then we went to the dumpster by the BSC. Someone had already been there to get rid of their tires, a dresser, and sundry other items. Problem is they left garbage strewn all over the place. Elder Youngberg and I cleaned it up for them. He got down in the dumpster and moved some bags around so we could deposit the bed frames, box springs, mattresses and piece of carpet that we had. Then we put the dresser on top of everything. It looks to me like some of the members or neighbors get rid of their garbage in the church dumpster. It would be interesting if they put a locked fence around the dumpster. I bet it wouldn't fill up nearly as fast.
I am ready to pay the rents on Monday. Have to have the checks printed by Thursday 7 pm because of the church wide accounting shutdown. Not looking forward to the restart. I will let you know how it goes.
Well I'll close for now. Been looking on line to see if there is any type of car top/trunk lid carrier I can get for the Avalon. I think we need some extra room. We were completely full when we arrived and we have picked up a couple items!! So far I haven't found anything I like.
Love to all. Have a great weekend. Good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It has been a beautiful day. Bob got his hair cut about 5:30 at the Mall. The lady who does it has cut lots of hair for other missionaries. She is a super person. Hopefully, we can invite her to learn about the gospel! After the haircut we went to the food court and had dinner. We ate at  Shanghi 360 some very good Asian food. Then, we stopped by Youngberg's to return his phone that had been left in the truck. We love these two! And  Sister Youngberg did something very special for me. She told me she had some very ripe bananas and that she would give them to me and a recipe to bake muffins for our Munch and Mingle Sunday. She had them all made up for me when we got there! I don't have to do a thing for Sunday. It's like an early Mother's Day gift. It means that tomorrow we can spend it how we want and not have to worry about anything else. We love Saturdays, So, tomorrow we will go shopping for new clothes!! It will be a fun day, I'm sure, at least for me.
May all of the women that I know, whoever you are, have a lovely Mother's Day week-end!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 5, 2016

Bonnie:  It's been a rather slow day, which is welcome. We were able to leave by 5:15. Of course, we had a busy evening doing the wash and going shopping. I actually did the shopping on my own tonight. I didn't have much to buy because I'm trying to use up the stuff in my freezer. It was nice because it wasn't totally dark when I got done. I don't like to drive around here in the dark! And Bob finished up the wash for me. It's been a good night.
We still have not taken our picture for the Clayton's. Bob wants to do it in front of the truck and trailer and some Elders had it today. We will include the picture on the blog when we take it. All of us in the mission are taking a picture of themselves holding a picture of the Clayton's with the words "We love you!" The  APs will put them together for the Clayton's before they leave on a thumb drive, I believe. It will be a nice going away present for them.
I will let Bob finish up. Happy Cinco De Mayo" everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Not too much to add. Things weren't real busy at the office and I actually had a couple of hours to work on the phone report. Pulled off some interesting information to give to the President.
The truck was being used by some Elders today so I couldn't take the trailer and some other items to the Thrift Store. Want to give them a chance to use the items before I throw them away. Will have to do that tomorrow I guess. Should be a good day to do it. Temperature predicted to be 71 and nothing less that 61 the next 10 days. Spring is finally getting here I hope.
Going to get ready for bed. Seem to need more and more sleep. Don't know if age is one of the reasons or not??? What do you think?
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

May 4, 2016

Bob: A year ago today Bonnie and I arrived in Brampton. Oh how time does fly. Now we'll be packing up again in about 55 days and heading on a new adventure.
Today started awfully early. Up at 5:00 and out the door 6:25 to get to the office so we could feed breakfast to the missionaries. I don't think this is what Elder Gillen had in mind when he started cooking waffles for the missionaries. But we only have 1 more MLC to do and new people can step in.
Got some things done today before the missionary blitz around 4:00. Several sets of missionaries were needing new phones. Takes a little time for each one, but finally got through it.
Weather was in the 60s today so it was quite pleasant. No rain either. Hoping for more of the same the next few days.
First mate is already getting ready for bed so I'm going to go join her. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:   I probably write this every time, but one thing I will miss for sure is hearing the missionaries sing during MLC. Today I heard "Called To Serve" and "I Believe In Christ". I love it. It's like angels singing!
It was such an early day that by 9:00 we were thinking it should be close to the end of the day, we were so tired! Everything went smoothly until I realized that I hadn't put out the mail. Only the packages were out. So, I hurried and did that and then I was able to enjoy the rest of the day. As Bob wrote, it's busiest when they are finished with their meeting and they all come into the office, with requests, supplies, and other things that we need to help them with. I did lots of laminating of the Daily Dose posters ( formerly ESL). There are several companionships teaching it now and President Clayton wants all of the posters laminated. The only problem is that the pouches I ordered for them will not be here until the middle of May. So, I went to two Staples stores and bought what they had. The third store did not have any in the size that I need.
One thing that was great was having waffles for breakfast and a small Subway sandwich with fruit for lunch provided by the mission.  I didn't have to cook dinner! Hopefully, tomorrow it will be a slower-paced day. All of the officer staff need a day like that.
I hope everyone has a good day tomorrow, as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 3, 2016

Bob: It has been a tiring day. We had a meeting with the Clayton's and the office staff today. Had to go to the bank also. Was able to get the bills paid and the follow-up list done. Still working on the text report. I have the phone usage ready, but the text will take a little longer. We went to eat tonight with the A/P's and a recent convert, Chris Fernandez. I am not sure what we ate. It wasn't bad, but not something I would travel too far for again. It was hot and spicy.
We have to be at the office tomorrow at about 6:45 to prepare breakfast for MLC which begins at 7:15. Somehow we have managed to go from providing occasional waffles to preparing breakfast at 7:15 in the morning. That's what happens when too many cooks get in the kitchen. Oh well, we have to live with it now.
President Clayton announced in our meeting today that Elder and Sister Wolfley are qualified and have the computer skills necessary to run the office. He is going to assign them to the office and send Bonnie and I to Temiskaming as an MLS couple for the rest of our mission!! We are happy to go work with the members there, but we are also said to be leaving friends we have met here. And we get to pack and move which is a drag!! But we'll do it. The Wolfleys get here approximately June 4th and we will leave by the end of June if not sooner. We will get to experience the northern winter this year. I am sure it will be different than the winter we just had.
Better get to bed. 5:45 will get here early. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  We went to a West Indies restaurant tonight. It was quite spicy, even with my mango hot sauce on the side. It was fun even though I don't especially want to go back. We have three places here that I want to try before we go up to the "frozen" north. It's one of the special things we can do here in the GTA (greater Toronto area).
I guess it is official that we are going to Temiskaming. I'm going with mixed emotions. There is much I will miss here. And a cold winter is not on my list of favorite things to experience! Perhaps the Lord has a special purpose for us. We'll see.
As Bob said we will be on our way to the office by 6:30 am, latest, tomorrow morning. I have just finished cutting up a watermelon and a cantaloupe for breakfast. I will add bananas and blackberries before it is served. We'll have to take the cart to get everything down to the car. I have 30 containers of greek yogurt and more plates and 5 cans of whipping cream. Oh, and butter. The syrup, nutella and pancake mix are already at the office.
May everyone enjoy their breakfasts in the morning as I'm sure we will!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

May 2, 2016

Bob: It was a pretty good day. Started with a little drizzle of rain, but it didn't last long. Still cool, but quite comfortable with a sweater. Got everything done that I had planned and spent some time on the new phone report. Will have President Clayton review the old report and see what he thinks. I'll let him make the call on any further detail he might want.
Sister Meleisea had a birthday today so she and her companion, Sister Edwards cooked lunch and had a Dairy Queen cake for some of the Brampton missionaries and the office staff today. It was quite nice. As a birthday gift for her I washed up all the dishes they dirtied preparing the meal.
We went to Brother and Sister Ludlow's tonight for the monthly dinner. By cutting the group in half we have much more room and aren't so crowded. It was a nice meal with pot pie, potatoes, and some sides. She had cheese cake for dessert. Really quite good.
Then we went to FHE at the BSC. Dropped off Sean and Belinda before we went to Staples to pick up some lamination packets for Bonnie. She had called on Saturday and inquired about them. They had put them at the checkout register and were going to hold them till 6. No one had taken them back to the display so we were able to get them. Bonnie was quite relieved to get them.
Went back to BSC to get Sean and Belinda to take them home. We got home just before 10.
I listened to the Blue Jays lose another one, 2 - 1. Had the bases loaded in the 8th with one out and hit a fly to right field. The throw home doubled up the runner. Then in the 9th they got the lead-off man on, but couldn't move him around. First a bad bunt got the lead runner. Then great defensive plays nailed the lead runner 2 more times. The magic from last year hasn't kicked in yet.
Time to go to bed. Love to all and good night brothers. Bonnie also sends her love.
Dad/Bob and Mom/Bonnie

May 1, 2016

Bonnie: Today has been a wonderful Sabbath. After announcing that the YSAs only speak for 2 minutes or less when they bear their testimonies, about 10 went up right away. Probably that many more went up as the meeting progressed. It was great listening and feeling the spirit as they talked. Next Sunday the Elders Quorum is doing Much and Mingle for Mother's Day, except for the desserts. The Relief Society has been assigned to bring those. I attended Sunday School and Relief Society today because I have two young men who round up the YSAs for their interviews with the Bishop. There were only three that were signed up anyway.  So, it's been a great day.
Happy  Birthday to Jeff today. I don't even want to know how old he is--I could figure it out of course, but it just makes me feel older!
Tomorrow begins the week of MLC, so it will be a busy few days.  We think the President may be coming in tomorrow instead of Tuesday for our weekly meeting. And Cannon's will be back tomorrow. That makes me happy! Have a good night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: It has been a good day. Especially when we got home. I got to take a short nap! Bonnie woke me up at 6:05 for dinner. Can't believe I slept that long.
Church was very good today. As Bonnie said, there were almost 20 YSA members that shared a short testimony along with the 2nd Counselor in the Stake Presidency, the Bishop's wife and the new Assistant, Elder Holt.
I taught the Melchizedek Priesthood Preparation Class today. I am supposed to be helping Brother Culp with this, but he probably won't be there for a while. His wife started chemo on Thursday.
It has been raining off and on most of the day. Not a hard rain but just a little. There is over 40% chance of rain 3 days out of the next 5. Hope I'm not moving people this week.
Well I'm heading for bed. Hope I can go to sleep. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob