Bob: Went swimming this morning. Did a personal best of 16 laps. I think it was about 35 minutes, give or take. Felt fine afterwards.
We stopped in Cobalt to see Sister Wilson, but she was on her way to go shopping with her neighbor. Didn't get to talk to her much.
Went to the hospital to see Donna Craig and Mike, a man who lives in our apartment building. He goes in for dialysis every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Had our Activity Night and it was good. Bonnie Hopkins, a volunteer at the hospital that we met, came and spent the evening with us. She seemed to enjoy herself. Afterwards we showed her our apartment as she is planning on selling her house and moving into an apartment in the near future.
That about sums up the day. Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add, other than some information about our guest tonight. At the age of 25 she had an aneurysm that left her right side paralyzed. She has almost completely recovered from it, learning how to speak and walk and use her good arm. She had to relearn how to do the simplest of things. including how to read. There have been several articles written about her amazing recovery. She is very open and friendly.
Bob and I also watched a talk give by Dallin H. Oaks in January to all of the missionaries world-wide in preparation for Elder Arnold's visit. In fact, tomorrow we will be spending time with our two Elders here doing more preparation. We will be discussing an article we have been asked to read. His visit will be next Thursday and Friday.
It's time to turn in, so my wish is a restful night for all of us.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 31 August 2016
Tuesday 30 August 2016
August 30, 2016
Bob: Fixed bacon, scrambled eggs and fried potatoes this morning for the Budgetts, Bonnie and myself. I don't think I would work well in a restaurant!! Trying to get everything done at nearly the same time is difficult. I think I should leave this to someone who has had much more experience. Just tell me when to start cooking what and it will work out better.
After breakfast we went to Devil's Rock overlook. It was a fun walk. We thought it might rain, but the sky cleared up and it was rather warm by the time we returned to our car. I got a couple pictures from our hike and put them below.
After the Budgett's left we went to the hospital to see Sister Craig, but she was asleep. Stopped to see Jack and Trudy as her brother-in-law was just buried, but they were not home. Went to the afternoon 'tea' and invited a couple brethren to our 'Activity Night'.
After dinner I headed to Brad's to help him put the shower surround on the bathtub. We did a lot of twisting and turning, took one door off its hinges, removed the molding from one door, scuffed up the newly painted drywall, but finally got it in place. Brad was so happy we didn't have to cut out a wall to do it.
After I got home we did some planning, scheduling and review of tomorrow night's spiritual thought before watching our nightly Murdoch Mystery episode.
Hope everyone had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie:
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. Our breakfast turned out well. It's a great walk out to Devil's Rock, which is an overlook of Lake Timiskaming, about 300' up. It's a beautiful view.
We have done our planning for the rest of the week. Now, it's just a matter of carrying it out.
I can't believe that it's the last day of August tomorrow! Where does the time go? I hope we all have something productive to show at the end of the day tomorrow!
Love to all, Mom/Bonnie
After breakfast we went to Devil's Rock overlook. It was a fun walk. We thought it might rain, but the sky cleared up and it was rather warm by the time we returned to our car. I got a couple pictures from our hike and put them below.
After the Budgett's left we went to the hospital to see Sister Craig, but she was asleep. Stopped to see Jack and Trudy as her brother-in-law was just buried, but they were not home. Went to the afternoon 'tea' and invited a couple brethren to our 'Activity Night'.
After dinner I headed to Brad's to help him put the shower surround on the bathtub. We did a lot of twisting and turning, took one door off its hinges, removed the molding from one door, scuffed up the newly painted drywall, but finally got it in place. Brad was so happy we didn't have to cut out a wall to do it.
After I got home we did some planning, scheduling and review of tomorrow night's spiritual thought before watching our nightly Murdoch Mystery episode.
Hope everyone had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie:
Overlooking Lake Timiskaming
On the way to Devil's Rock
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. Our breakfast turned out well. It's a great walk out to Devil's Rock, which is an overlook of Lake Timiskaming, about 300' up. It's a beautiful view.
We have done our planning for the rest of the week. Now, it's just a matter of carrying it out.
I can't believe that it's the last day of August tomorrow! Where does the time go? I hope we all have something productive to show at the end of the day tomorrow!
Love to all, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 29 August 2016
April 29, 2016
Bob: We took the Budgetts and visited the Jakobs today. The women went blueberry picking and the men went to Cooke Lake for some fishing. We caught 4 pike and 1 perch before lunch. For lunch we went ashore and cooked the fish. We ate almost every bit of it. I thought we had way more fish than we could eat, but there wasn't much left. We went back out and fished in the afternoon. We caught 4 more fish, but took them home. When we left tonight Karl was cleaning the last one.
We just finished season 3 of the Murdoch Mysteries. It is time for bed and I am so tired. My love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Sister Budgett and I got to the Jakob's house about 11:30. We had a good time chatting and playing with their three foster children. We went looking for berries in the afternoon. It took some driving around, but we finally found a place . Between six of us we got a good many berries. We would have had more but the littlest foster daughter ate quite a bit more than she picked! We came home and grilled some marinated chicken with lots of vegetables from Jakob's garden. For dessert I brought a homemade blueberry cobbler.
Tomorrow we will have the Budgett's over for breakfast and then hike out to Devil's Rock. They will be leaving about 2:00 for Brampton. Then, we will be planning out the rest of our week. We have missionary work to do!
Lots of love,
Mom/Bonnie
We just finished season 3 of the Murdoch Mysteries. It is time for bed and I am so tired. My love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Sister Budgett and I got to the Jakob's house about 11:30. We had a good time chatting and playing with their three foster children. We went looking for berries in the afternoon. It took some driving around, but we finally found a place . Between six of us we got a good many berries. We would have had more but the littlest foster daughter ate quite a bit more than she picked! We came home and grilled some marinated chicken with lots of vegetables from Jakob's garden. For dessert I brought a homemade blueberry cobbler.
Tomorrow we will have the Budgett's over for breakfast and then hike out to Devil's Rock. They will be leaving about 2:00 for Brampton. Then, we will be planning out the rest of our week. We have missionary work to do!
Lots of love,
Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 28 August 2016
August 28, 2016
Bob: Made the trip to Val d'Or today. We left about 7:05 - 7:10 from New Liskeard and pulled up behind the church at 9:42. Does not take quite as long as everyone says. But our driver wasn't letting any grass grow under his wheels. On the way back we found a short cut that saves about 10 minutes. Looking at the map I think there is another shortcut right in Rouyn that would save some time also. So if we go again we'll try it. The service was very small. 1st and 2nd Counselors in Bishop, Bonnie and I, 2 Elders, 2 children, 1 investigator, and 6 sisters. And it was mostly in French, although President Ochs, who spoke and taught the combined PH/RS meeting would occasionally review in English what he had said in French.
The Budgetts got here just before 7:00 tonight. Planning on visiting the Jakobs with them tomorrow. The women and children are going berry picking. The men are going to try to reduce the fish population. Hopefully we can catch enough to have a fish fry tomorrow night.
Well, we had better get to bed. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have anything to add, other than I was asked to lead the singing in Sacrament Meeting! I'm so glad I know the little French I do. It really helped me sing some of the words of the songs correctly. It was a very good Sabbath Day for us.
May we all have an even better tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
The Budgetts got here just before 7:00 tonight. Planning on visiting the Jakobs with them tomorrow. The women and children are going berry picking. The men are going to try to reduce the fish population. Hopefully we can catch enough to have a fish fry tomorrow night.
Well, we had better get to bed. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have anything to add, other than I was asked to lead the singing in Sacrament Meeting! I'm so glad I know the little French I do. It really helped me sing some of the words of the songs correctly. It was a very good Sabbath Day for us.
May we all have an even better tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Saturday 27 August 2016
August 27,2016
Bob: Been busy today doing little things. Got up early and went blueberry picking with Brother Wiwchar. We drove about 20 miles south on highway 11, but it was worth it. Once they were washed we had about 8 cups per the first mate. She made a cobbler for tomorrow.
While she was cooking I washed the car. Then it was onto to Brad's house to help him set the bathtub in place. Once that was done he had to cut the water lines, which are copper. It was then that he discovered that the values did not completely shut off the water. It was barely leaking through. So we were able to wick the water out of the line with a paper towel before soldering a cap on the line. Had to do one of them twice, but they held.
Brad came over to eat supper with us. I fried the bacon for the sandwiches and we had a simple, but great meal.
Next it was onto potato soup. First mate peeled the potatoes while I diced them and an onion. Pot is on the stove cooking right now.
That's about it for the day. Hope you had a great day and that your Sabbath will be even better.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We were up early today but that was good for us. There is a huge "clear cut" area that is filled with blueberries. They are small, but delicious. Some were so little that I threw them away! The longest part is cleaning them.
I have been busy cooking, washing clothes and cleaning today. We need to take something tomorrow to Val D'Or so we made a macaroni salad. I'm also taking granola bars and fruit. We will eat the potato soup tomorrow night when the Budgetts arrive. We hope we are home in time. We probably will be because they aren't leaving until 1:30 pm, after their Sacrament Meeting. We should be home by 6, which ought to work. I am excited about attending church in Val D'Or. Maybe I can understand a bit more French than our last visit to Quebec.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Sabbath Day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
While she was cooking I washed the car. Then it was onto to Brad's house to help him set the bathtub in place. Once that was done he had to cut the water lines, which are copper. It was then that he discovered that the values did not completely shut off the water. It was barely leaking through. So we were able to wick the water out of the line with a paper towel before soldering a cap on the line. Had to do one of them twice, but they held.
Brad came over to eat supper with us. I fried the bacon for the sandwiches and we had a simple, but great meal.
Next it was onto potato soup. First mate peeled the potatoes while I diced them and an onion. Pot is on the stove cooking right now.
That's about it for the day. Hope you had a great day and that your Sabbath will be even better.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We were up early today but that was good for us. There is a huge "clear cut" area that is filled with blueberries. They are small, but delicious. Some were so little that I threw them away! The longest part is cleaning them.
I have been busy cooking, washing clothes and cleaning today. We need to take something tomorrow to Val D'Or so we made a macaroni salad. I'm also taking granola bars and fruit. We will eat the potato soup tomorrow night when the Budgetts arrive. We hope we are home in time. We probably will be because they aren't leaving until 1:30 pm, after their Sacrament Meeting. We should be home by 6, which ought to work. I am excited about attending church in Val D'Or. Maybe I can understand a bit more French than our last visit to Quebec.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Sabbath Day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 26 August 2016
August 26, 2016
Bonnie: It's been a full day. After a haircut and shopping for me, we went to find a less-active man. We never found his home but we had a beautiful drive along two different lakes. We found some fishing camps that Bob did not know existed. We also went to look at a historic fort, but only found a marker for it. The fort was moved to the Quebec side of the Temiskaming Lake, we figure. Tonight we visited with our friends the Villeneffs. We really like teaching them, and hope that one day they both will come back to church.
Tomorrow will be busy because we are preparing for the visit of our friends from Brampton, the Budgett's. They will arrive Sunday evening and go back Tuesday afternoon. I will be doing lots of cooking in preparation for them. It's something I love to do, though. And in the morning we will be picking blueberries!! That really makes me happy!!
May we all have a great weekend.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: You can see pictures of the bears I took today below. We were on our way to Brother Evans down a dirt road that runs parallel to Lake Timiskaming. We rounded a curve and I saw our first bear about 100 feet in front of us. I couldn't get the camera out soon enough to get his picture. On our way back we turned off and headed down to see the site of old Fort Timiskaming. As we passed a turnoff to the left I spotted the 3 bears below about 100 yards off. I took several pictures but these 3 are the best. It was hard to get a good picture until I finally positioned the car window so I could rest the camera on it. Should have tried a little more zoom though.
We finally got to the fort, but there is just a marker and a cross (see below). I walked down to the lake and could see a similar cross across the lake at Ville Marie, I think. They have a little more to see over there. We want to go down as soon as we can before it gets too cold.
We did have a good visit with the Villneffs this evening. I believe he likes us coming around. He told us his door is always open if we want to come by. Each time we have been there he makes the effort to walk us out to our car and say good bye.
After the berry-picking in the morning I will help Brad put the bathtub/shower combo in his bathroom. We were going to do it tonight, but his uncle was in the hospital and the family was gathering. He passed away this evening.
A recent picture taken of two of our favorite missionaries at the last temple session for returning missionaries is below. Elder Erickson went to Utah county and Elder Barlow to Davis County.
Hope your day has been wonderful. I feel blessed to have 'shot' 3 bears in one day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Momma Bear
Momma and twins
Historical Marker for Fort Timiskaming
Cross at Historical Site
Elder Erickson (left) and Elder Barlow (Right)
(Two of our favorites that just went home to Utah)
(Two of our favorites that just went home to Utah)
Thursday 25 August 2016
August 25, 2016
Bonnie: While Bob discussed Elders Quorum stuff this morning with Brother Humphry I made cookies. We then attended afternoon "tea" with several of the seniors who live here. It was quite interesting to talk to them. Each has a story to tell! After this, we delivered some of the cookies to a sister and then went north to see the Jakob's. We had a nice visit which included dinner. After we ate, we went to the beach with Patsy and Karl and their three foster daughters. It was a very pleasant evening, as the picture below shows.
I hope all of our readers have had pleasant evenings, as well!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Very interesting day. President Humphrey and I spent an hour and a half trying to figure out home teaching. Determining routes and companionships when there are great distances and 'situations' involved is rather tricky. We will do our best and hopefully the brothers will follow through on their assignments.
It was nice to visit with the Jakobs this evening. They hear all the problems which are many. However, there are no members close to where they live and they can't leave the foster children with just anyone. I told Bonnie that they need to be visited and fellowshipped as well as others.
Hope you enjoy the picture below. It represents to me the pace of life here in the north country as I perceive it.
May all your days be pleasant and all your righteous expectations met. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I hope all of our readers have had pleasant evenings, as well!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Very interesting day. President Humphrey and I spent an hour and a half trying to figure out home teaching. Determining routes and companionships when there are great distances and 'situations' involved is rather tricky. We will do our best and hopefully the brothers will follow through on their assignments.
It was nice to visit with the Jakobs this evening. They hear all the problems which are many. However, there are no members close to where they live and they can't leave the foster children with just anyone. I told Bonnie that they need to be visited and fellowshipped as well as others.
Hope you enjoy the picture below. It represents to me the pace of life here in the north country as I perceive it.
May all your days be pleasant and all your righteous expectations met. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Sitting on the Dock of the Bay
Wednesday 24 August 2016
August 24, 2016
Bob: It was touch and go for awhile today, but everything worked out okay. Bonnie picked up the Cushman's and took them to the hospital by 10:30. She left here at 8:45. Just as she was walking out the door I got a message that I wasn't needed on the move so I didn't get to go with Bonnie to pick them up. Once she dropped them off at the hospital she came and got me. Then we back to the hospital and visited Donna Craig while waiting for Warren to get his surgery.
We took Warren's prescriptions to Walmart. They initially told him his insurance would not pay for one of them. He said that was okay he would just pay it. So they said they would be ready in a few minutes. I then took him to electronics and then to get a pair of pants. While we doing that they called over the intercom for Warren Cushman to come to the pharmacy. They explained to him that since he was residing in the nursing home that he didn't need those prescriptions filled, that the nursing home would have the items there for him. Warren and Karol said that isn't correct because the nursing home always orders things from Sudbury, 3 hours away.
So we went to the local pharmacy in Englehart. They in turned filled both of his prescriptions with no co-pay or deductible! He was quite happy about that.
I did have one surprise though. Right next door to the pharmacy is a small local restaurant called 'Sisters'. I believe it is the one I heard people talking about at Elk Cabins a couple years ago. We will definitely stop and try it out.
I thought the Activity Night went well. Most everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. One brother I am not sure about, but we'll see if he comes back next week. I took him home and he said to call him next Wednesday.
I went swimming this morning and did 14 laps again. It was easier than Monday. Talked to one other senior that swims when I do. He told me he usually does 20 laps, but had to cut it short today. Will try to keep the conversation going on Friday.
The Budgetts called today. They just got back from Washington. Both had to have some major dental work done. When she called I answered the phone, 'Paradise Lodge'!! She couldn't talk for a few seconds as she was laughing. Her husband said he believes it by some of the pictures I have sent.
Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's a long day, but kind of crazy, with quite a bit of time waiting for Brother Cushman to get finished with of his cataract surgery. When he finally got ready to go we went to lunch first, then to Walmart. They really like to go to Walmart! Next stop was a pharmacy in Englehart where they filled both of his prescriptions without any charge to him. We finally got back about 4:45. I was so tired I wanted to take a quick nap, but that didn't happen. Bob went to pick up a less-active and we began our "Activity Night" about 7:00. It turned out rather well, I think. We introduced ourselves, sharing what our favorite food is, and then showed the Mormon Message video "Lift" and shared Matt.25: 31-40. Some of us shared some personal experiences after that. Then, we played games and had cookies. I really enjoyed it. Tomorrow, Bob and I will go to "tea" at 2:00 to meet others in our building. One of the regulars at tea actually came tonight! She could only stay till 7:30, however. But, there is hope!
May everyone have a good night and day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We took Warren's prescriptions to Walmart. They initially told him his insurance would not pay for one of them. He said that was okay he would just pay it. So they said they would be ready in a few minutes. I then took him to electronics and then to get a pair of pants. While we doing that they called over the intercom for Warren Cushman to come to the pharmacy. They explained to him that since he was residing in the nursing home that he didn't need those prescriptions filled, that the nursing home would have the items there for him. Warren and Karol said that isn't correct because the nursing home always orders things from Sudbury, 3 hours away.
So we went to the local pharmacy in Englehart. They in turned filled both of his prescriptions with no co-pay or deductible! He was quite happy about that.
I did have one surprise though. Right next door to the pharmacy is a small local restaurant called 'Sisters'. I believe it is the one I heard people talking about at Elk Cabins a couple years ago. We will definitely stop and try it out.
I thought the Activity Night went well. Most everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. One brother I am not sure about, but we'll see if he comes back next week. I took him home and he said to call him next Wednesday.
I went swimming this morning and did 14 laps again. It was easier than Monday. Talked to one other senior that swims when I do. He told me he usually does 20 laps, but had to cut it short today. Will try to keep the conversation going on Friday.
The Budgetts called today. They just got back from Washington. Both had to have some major dental work done. When she called I answered the phone, 'Paradise Lodge'!! She couldn't talk for a few seconds as she was laughing. Her husband said he believes it by some of the pictures I have sent.
Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's a long day, but kind of crazy, with quite a bit of time waiting for Brother Cushman to get finished with of his cataract surgery. When he finally got ready to go we went to lunch first, then to Walmart. They really like to go to Walmart! Next stop was a pharmacy in Englehart where they filled both of his prescriptions without any charge to him. We finally got back about 4:45. I was so tired I wanted to take a quick nap, but that didn't happen. Bob went to pick up a less-active and we began our "Activity Night" about 7:00. It turned out rather well, I think. We introduced ourselves, sharing what our favorite food is, and then showed the Mormon Message video "Lift" and shared Matt.25: 31-40. Some of us shared some personal experiences after that. Then, we played games and had cookies. I really enjoyed it. Tomorrow, Bob and I will go to "tea" at 2:00 to meet others in our building. One of the regulars at tea actually came tonight! She could only stay till 7:30, however. But, there is hope!
May everyone have a good night and day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 23 August 2016
August 23, 2016
Bonnie: We left about 10:00 and got home about 7:30 tonight. We had a good day, although we got turned away at one door and two or three people were not home. One of the sisters we went to see is from Poland. She is really struggling. She doesn't feel the love of God in her life anymore. She is sad and bitter and feels she has no friends. She is super giving, however, and kind. She was not feeling well, and we went to the grocery store to get her some aspirin. Then, she gave us some blended berries to drink and also a box of barley for soup. We are praying for her. It seems like so many of the people we meet are struggling in some way, and many of them are struggling just to make ends meet. It is hard to see this so often.
We had pizza for dinner at a pizza shop where a non-member is the cook. It was delicious and we had some good conversation with him.
Tomorrow I will be taking the Cushman's to the hospital in New Liskeard! Bro. Cushman has no other way to get there. It's for cataract surgery so it's not life-threatening, thankfully. It will make for a very busy day because Bob is helping move someone in the morning. Then we need to get ready for our "Activity Night" at 7 tomorrow. I hope the surgery is successful and that we are back in time. And I hope our evening is a successful one.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much else to add. The non-member cook, Phil, is married Cindy, who is getting ready to attend the temple. He and I had a good chat about his fishing trip yesterday. He and his friend caught 5 nice walleye, plus some pike, perch, catfish and bass he said. I'm not so sure they caught a catfish. Haven't heard of anyone catching those before. I might not have heard him correctly.
Looks like I may or may not have to help with the move tomorrow morning. Will walk up to the house where they are moving from and see if I am needed. Another brother in the Branch has volunteered our services because he feels they need to be taught the gospel. But, they have a truck and others to help them. Maybe they see an ulterior motive in Larry's offer. We'll just see how it turns out tomorrow.
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We had pizza for dinner at a pizza shop where a non-member is the cook. It was delicious and we had some good conversation with him.
Tomorrow I will be taking the Cushman's to the hospital in New Liskeard! Bro. Cushman has no other way to get there. It's for cataract surgery so it's not life-threatening, thankfully. It will make for a very busy day because Bob is helping move someone in the morning. Then we need to get ready for our "Activity Night" at 7 tomorrow. I hope the surgery is successful and that we are back in time. And I hope our evening is a successful one.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much else to add. The non-member cook, Phil, is married Cindy, who is getting ready to attend the temple. He and I had a good chat about his fishing trip yesterday. He and his friend caught 5 nice walleye, plus some pike, perch, catfish and bass he said. I'm not so sure they caught a catfish. Haven't heard of anyone catching those before. I might not have heard him correctly.
Looks like I may or may not have to help with the move tomorrow morning. Will walk up to the house where they are moving from and see if I am needed. Another brother in the Branch has volunteered our services because he feels they need to be taught the gospel. But, they have a truck and others to help them. Maybe they see an ulterior motive in Larry's offer. We'll just see how it turns out tomorrow.
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 22 August 2016
August 22, 2016
I POSTED A BLOG FOR AUGUST 21ST EARLIER TODAY (22ND). OUR INTERNET WENT DOWN LAST NIGHT WHILE WE WERE WRITING THE BLOG.
Bonnie: We did lots of planning this morning. Then, I went visiting teaching with Sister Cambridge. One of the sisters was not home, so we went to see Sister Huywan. It's always a joy to see her. She is the sister who just turned 95 years old. It was great to visit with her. Shortly after I came home we left to see the LaRonde's. Bob gave the August home teaching message to them. Then, we left to have dinner with the Wiwchar's. This last name is Ukrainian. They are a stalwart couple and were very helpful with several questions we had about less-active members.
Tomorrow we have many people to see in Kirkland Lake, Larder Lake, and Englehart, the Lord willing. May you all have a wonderful day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add to the day's activities as listed by my sweet companion. But, while she stayed home I took the time to go swimming this morning. Started right off at 14 laps, where I finished 2 weeks ago. I didn't think I would be able to swim that many, but it was okay.
We have our Activity Night planned for Wednesday. I showed the apartment manager what Mormon Message we might show and he was okay with it. I invited him and his wife. They are newly-weds without any children. There are several people who meet in the common room for afternoon tea. I told one of those ladies what we doing on Wednesday night and invited her. I also asked her to let the others in her group know they are all invited. Our plan is to share a spiritual thought from the scriptures, show a Mormon Message, play some games and share some cookies, etc. We'll see how it goes this week and then start inviting some of the less actives.
We will have a busy day tomorrow. Hopefully we'll find a lot people at home.
Well, time to retire. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We did lots of planning this morning. Then, I went visiting teaching with Sister Cambridge. One of the sisters was not home, so we went to see Sister Huywan. It's always a joy to see her. She is the sister who just turned 95 years old. It was great to visit with her. Shortly after I came home we left to see the LaRonde's. Bob gave the August home teaching message to them. Then, we left to have dinner with the Wiwchar's. This last name is Ukrainian. They are a stalwart couple and were very helpful with several questions we had about less-active members.
Tomorrow we have many people to see in Kirkland Lake, Larder Lake, and Englehart, the Lord willing. May you all have a wonderful day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add to the day's activities as listed by my sweet companion. But, while she stayed home I took the time to go swimming this morning. Started right off at 14 laps, where I finished 2 weeks ago. I didn't think I would be able to swim that many, but it was okay.
We have our Activity Night planned for Wednesday. I showed the apartment manager what Mormon Message we might show and he was okay with it. I invited him and his wife. They are newly-weds without any children. There are several people who meet in the common room for afternoon tea. I told one of those ladies what we doing on Wednesday night and invited her. I also asked her to let the others in her group know they are all invited. Our plan is to share a spiritual thought from the scriptures, show a Mormon Message, play some games and share some cookies, etc. We'll see how it goes this week and then start inviting some of the less actives.
We will have a busy day tomorrow. Hopefully we'll find a lot people at home.
Well, time to retire. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
August 21, 2016
Bonnie: We
had a great meeting with Elder Ballard. He spoke out strongly about teaching
true doctrine and that it's the duty of parents and grand-parents to be sure
that that's what our children are learning. He warned us not to be deceived.
And we are to be watchful about prideful wealth, our entertainment and
recreation, and not keeping the Sabbath Day holy. He said there are too many
false prophets among us! He encouraged us to have a personal interview with
ourselves, without any electronics near, and ponder what we need to do or not
to do. He said to try and have contact with heaven!
Afterwards we had
a Ward Council. I thought it went well, with quite open discussion. Our first
"Activity Night" will be this Wednesday at the Common Room in our
apartment building. Bob and I are in charge of it. I hope we have some
less-actives show up, and maybe an investigator or two.
I hope you all
have had a happy Sabbath!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It was a great meeting with Elder
Ballard. Bonnie has listed the highlights. He also said we need to continue
healthy habits and make spiritual adjustments as necessary. Another comment he
made was transgression and not living the gospel makes it difficult to hear
promptings of the Spirit. The Lord will micro-manage our lives if we stay close
to him and listen for His promptings.
Went back to
church at 7 and worked with Brother Cambridge on record changes Bonnie and I
have found so far. Hopefully I didn't forget anyone.
Time for bed. Love
to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
THIS WAS NOT POSTED UNTIL AUGUST 22 AT 11:48 BECAUSE THE INTERNET WENT DOWN LAST NIGHT WHILE WE WERE WRITING THE BLOG.
Saturday 20 August 2016
August 20, 2016
Bonnie: We finally met with a sister we have been trying to see for quite awhile. We had a great conversation with her, and she may come to church tomorrow to hear Elder Ballard! It all depends upon when the grand-kids arrive, so we will see.
Elder Ballard's and Elder Bennett's talks were wonderful. They both stressed the importance of councils, not only at church, but as families and between husbands and wives. I wish we had done more of that with our children. Other than some cleaning, ironing and doing two loads of wash that sums up my day. We also had fresh peas for dinner. I've never cooked them before. They were better than I thought they would be.
I pray we will all have a wonderful Sabbath Day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I don't have too much to add to what Bonnie has said. Both talks in the broadcast today did stress councils. It would have been nice if the Elders Quorum, Relief Society, Young Women and Primary would have had someone there to hear it. At least the Branch President was there. The young missionaries were there, too, as well as our Branch clerk and the stake clerk who is in our branch. The couple who are the Branch Mission Leaders also attended.
Hope your day was great and that your Sabbath is even better. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Elder Ballard's and Elder Bennett's talks were wonderful. They both stressed the importance of councils, not only at church, but as families and between husbands and wives. I wish we had done more of that with our children. Other than some cleaning, ironing and doing two loads of wash that sums up my day. We also had fresh peas for dinner. I've never cooked them before. They were better than I thought they would be.
I pray we will all have a wonderful Sabbath Day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I don't have too much to add to what Bonnie has said. Both talks in the broadcast today did stress councils. It would have been nice if the Elders Quorum, Relief Society, Young Women and Primary would have had someone there to hear it. At least the Branch President was there. The young missionaries were there, too, as well as our Branch clerk and the stake clerk who is in our branch. The couple who are the Branch Mission Leaders also attended.
Hope your day was great and that your Sabbath is even better. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Friday 19 August 2016
August 19, 2016
Bob: This has been a day of service. The first thing was cleaning up the outside of the chapel. We pulled a lot of weeds from the front yard, cut out many dead limbs from the shrubbery, cut back bushes that were growing out into the stairway, but didn't get much done on the main shrubs. The yard maintenance people showed up while we were working. I had called Henry Lau, the Mission PFR guy, and asked him why the yard maintenance people hadn't trimmed the shrubbery. He said they are supposed to do it twice a year, spring and fall. Everyone at the Branch says nothing has been done this year. I sent him some pictures and I'm awaiting a reply. Brother Sauve believes our Stake has to take care of their own shrubbery. This doesn't seem right to me. I saw many yard maintenance crews working on shrubbery at different meeting houses this spring.
Next I went to Brother Sauve's house and helped him put up some drywall in his bathroom. His house is small and they have only 1 bathroom. So while the bathroom is being remodeled his has rented a porta-john. His daughters are real happy with that!! They are staying at his ex-wife's house most of the time now. She lives about 1/3 of a mile away. I helped him all afternoon and got home at 5:00. My knees are so sore. One time I was down on the floor putting screws in the drywall. When it came time to get up I could barely get up.
After dinner we went to Bucke Park with Brad. He and I tried catching some pickerel with pickerel rigs, but we only caught one little one that we tossed back. Brad caught it.
Well it's time to get ready for bed. Have a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: There were five of us working outside the chapel today, which was nice. It went rather quickly. Then, we went to the OPP to pick up my police check and get Bob fingerprinted. It took quite a while. He had to answer lots of questions. Then, the machine did not like any of Bob's fingerprints! They tried all 10 fingers. That means he has to be checked out by someone above the jurisdiction of the Temiskaming Shores OPP. It goes to the provincial level next, which means another two to three weeks. Crazy!!
While Bob helped Brad I did the shopping and worked on my french lessons. It was nice having the afternoon to myself. As Bob said, we ended the evening with a trip to the lake-shore. It was quite relaxing which was just what Bob needed.
Elder Ballard is here tonight in Brampton. He will speak tomorrow morning to the missionaries and then at 3:00 to all of the ward and branch councils. It will broadcast to our building. It's so exciting to have him here! It will be a wonderful week-end.
I hope everyone has a great night and day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Next I went to Brother Sauve's house and helped him put up some drywall in his bathroom. His house is small and they have only 1 bathroom. So while the bathroom is being remodeled his has rented a porta-john. His daughters are real happy with that!! They are staying at his ex-wife's house most of the time now. She lives about 1/3 of a mile away. I helped him all afternoon and got home at 5:00. My knees are so sore. One time I was down on the floor putting screws in the drywall. When it came time to get up I could barely get up.
After dinner we went to Bucke Park with Brad. He and I tried catching some pickerel with pickerel rigs, but we only caught one little one that we tossed back. Brad caught it.
Well it's time to get ready for bed. Have a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: There were five of us working outside the chapel today, which was nice. It went rather quickly. Then, we went to the OPP to pick up my police check and get Bob fingerprinted. It took quite a while. He had to answer lots of questions. Then, the machine did not like any of Bob's fingerprints! They tried all 10 fingers. That means he has to be checked out by someone above the jurisdiction of the Temiskaming Shores OPP. It goes to the provincial level next, which means another two to three weeks. Crazy!!
While Bob helped Brad I did the shopping and worked on my french lessons. It was nice having the afternoon to myself. As Bob said, we ended the evening with a trip to the lake-shore. It was quite relaxing which was just what Bob needed.
Elder Ballard is here tonight in Brampton. He will speak tomorrow morning to the missionaries and then at 3:00 to all of the ward and branch councils. It will broadcast to our building. It's so exciting to have him here! It will be a wonderful week-end.
I hope everyone has a great night and day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bonnie reading and Brad fishing
Bonnie and the 2 poles we were using
Some of the shrubbery problem
Thursday 18 August 2016
August 18, 2016
Bob: It has been a long day. We took a short walk this morning and then left for Rouyn at 10:00. We got to the Elder's apartment at 11:45. It was a nice drive through the country and around some lakes. In 2011 the population of Rouyn Noranda was 41,000, so it is a nice sized city. Many more people there than in our area.
Elders Carman and Feth are serving here now. They are 2 very good Elders. We were walking on our way to see someone. As we came to the street corner the light turned red and we had to wait to cross. Both of them started up a conversation with someone different. They and their contacts were talking away in French to each other. Another time we were walking back to our cars as a car made a left turn down a near-by alley. The Elders debated for a second, thinking it might be someone they knew. So they excused themselves and walked down the alley. A guy got out of his car and they started talking to him. He left them for a short time and then came back. They didn't know him, but they set up an appointment to come back and talk to he and his wife about Jesus Christ and the plan for families. He said he and his wife would like to hear about that. We took the Elders to McDonald's to get an ice cream. While we were in line Elder Feth began talking to an older gentleman sitting and eating a meal. Eventually he sat down with him and then Elder Carman went over. They set an appointment with him, too. So in less than 2 hours they set 3 appointments.
We visited with 3 people today. One was a less active. Another was an investigator. The third was a returning Elder. All were super nice. It looks like the boys are starting to make some headway in Quebec. They told us they are teaching more people in Val d'Or which is a bigger city south of Rouyn.
I'll let Bonnie take over now. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We did have some delightful conversations with people today. I love hearing them speak French. Most speak very good English, as well. The sister who has not been baptized yet has some interesting ideas. She loves the church and attends when it meets on the first Sunday of the month in Rouyn. But she has problems with other things that she feels she can't accept right now. She has had lots of missionaries visit with her over the last two years. She is a very good woman. The returning Elder is also fun to visit with. His wife met us without a smile and then she went into another room while we talked. Yet, there is always hope.
On the way home, we stopped at a road-side rest area beside another of Canada's beautiful lakes. We have had a wonderful day and we hope everyone has also had a great day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Elders Carman and Feth are serving here now. They are 2 very good Elders. We were walking on our way to see someone. As we came to the street corner the light turned red and we had to wait to cross. Both of them started up a conversation with someone different. They and their contacts were talking away in French to each other. Another time we were walking back to our cars as a car made a left turn down a near-by alley. The Elders debated for a second, thinking it might be someone they knew. So they excused themselves and walked down the alley. A guy got out of his car and they started talking to him. He left them for a short time and then came back. They didn't know him, but they set up an appointment to come back and talk to he and his wife about Jesus Christ and the plan for families. He said he and his wife would like to hear about that. We took the Elders to McDonald's to get an ice cream. While we were in line Elder Feth began talking to an older gentleman sitting and eating a meal. Eventually he sat down with him and then Elder Carman went over. They set an appointment with him, too. So in less than 2 hours they set 3 appointments.
We visited with 3 people today. One was a less active. Another was an investigator. The third was a returning Elder. All were super nice. It looks like the boys are starting to make some headway in Quebec. They told us they are teaching more people in Val d'Or which is a bigger city south of Rouyn.
I'll let Bonnie take over now. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We did have some delightful conversations with people today. I love hearing them speak French. Most speak very good English, as well. The sister who has not been baptized yet has some interesting ideas. She loves the church and attends when it meets on the first Sunday of the month in Rouyn. But she has problems with other things that she feels she can't accept right now. She has had lots of missionaries visit with her over the last two years. She is a very good woman. The returning Elder is also fun to visit with. His wife met us without a smile and then she went into another room while we talked. Yet, there is always hope.
On the way home, we stopped at a road-side rest area beside another of Canada's beautiful lakes. We have had a wonderful day and we hope everyone has also had a great day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bonnie at the rest stop today
Shallow lake at the rest stop
Hay field we passed Tuesday
Famous Thornloe Cheese Factory
Wednesday 17 August 2016
August 17, 2016
Bob: Not too much happening. We did go to the activity room at the hospital today to mingle and talk with some of the residents during their lunch time. I believe there were four residents, the activity supervisor, and 2 volunteers there. Had a nice conversation with them.
The Ontario Police called and said Bonnie's background check is complete, but they need some more information from me! Maybe I'll be going to jail!! Will stop and see on Friday.
Tonight the Temiskaming and Rouyn Elders were here for dinner. The Rouyn Elders were about 45 minutes late which in turn made us about 10 minutes late for our appointment with the Villneffs. It worked out okay as Norm was at his neighbors and didn't see us drive up. So he got there about 10 minutes after we did.
On the way home there was a big storm cloud hanging over the whole area. It was very ominous. After we got home we heard a large clap of thunder, but haven't heard anything since.
Well I'm going to bed as we must be up and ready to go by 10. That doesn't sound too hard, but it seems to take me almost 2 hours to get up, test my blood, eat and shower. I used to wonder why it took my brother, Eddie, so long to get ready when we were going to the basketball games in Charleston. Now I know why.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: So, about our background checks, the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) said that there is another person with the same name as Bob's who has some kind of shady history. They want to get Bob's fingerprints!! I can't believe it is taking so long for this to get done.
Tomorrow it will be fun to go to Quebec and talk to some of the people there. I always like to go new places, although it looks much like Ontario over there.
We have some very good Elders here now. The new ones seem like they will do an awesome job of helping to move the work along. As the two sets of Elders talked they came up with the name of a man who told them he would like to get baptized--but this was several months ago. He seems to have "fallen through the cracks" because of the many transfers, etc. I hope these new Elders can do a good job of getting this man to follow through with his desire to be baptized.
May you all have a wonderful day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
The Ontario Police called and said Bonnie's background check is complete, but they need some more information from me! Maybe I'll be going to jail!! Will stop and see on Friday.
Tonight the Temiskaming and Rouyn Elders were here for dinner. The Rouyn Elders were about 45 minutes late which in turn made us about 10 minutes late for our appointment with the Villneffs. It worked out okay as Norm was at his neighbors and didn't see us drive up. So he got there about 10 minutes after we did.
On the way home there was a big storm cloud hanging over the whole area. It was very ominous. After we got home we heard a large clap of thunder, but haven't heard anything since.
Well I'm going to bed as we must be up and ready to go by 10. That doesn't sound too hard, but it seems to take me almost 2 hours to get up, test my blood, eat and shower. I used to wonder why it took my brother, Eddie, so long to get ready when we were going to the basketball games in Charleston. Now I know why.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: So, about our background checks, the OPP (Ontario Provincial Police) said that there is another person with the same name as Bob's who has some kind of shady history. They want to get Bob's fingerprints!! I can't believe it is taking so long for this to get done.
Tomorrow it will be fun to go to Quebec and talk to some of the people there. I always like to go new places, although it looks much like Ontario over there.
We have some very good Elders here now. The new ones seem like they will do an awesome job of helping to move the work along. As the two sets of Elders talked they came up with the name of a man who told them he would like to get baptized--but this was several months ago. He seems to have "fallen through the cracks" because of the many transfers, etc. I hope these new Elders can do a good job of getting this man to follow through with his desire to be baptized.
May you all have a wonderful day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 16 August 2016
August 16,2016
Bonnie: Today we delivered invitations to Elder Ballard's broadcast this Sunday. We went to four different homes. Then, we picked up Brother Voterro to go to visit the Cushman's. Brother Cushman wanted a blessing. We were supposed to be there at 2:45 and when we arrived they weren't there. They had not come back from Brother Cushman's appointment with a doctor. We waited and waited and then decided to go to the clinic where they were to bring them back to the nursing home. Because they have their "full mental capacities" they are allowed to take a taxi there and back, or to walk if they want to. (Remember we are talking about a little town!) We must have passed their taxi because when we got to the clinic they had already left. Anyway, to make a long story short, we finally got together for a "Plan of Salvation" lesson and the blessing. We were going to take them to New Liskeard to Walmart, but they were too tired. Brother Cushman's story is a sad one, including a very abusive, alcoholic father and ugly experiences with life in general. No wonder he is sometimes suicidal. He is such a good man. And so is his wife, Karol.
I hope everyone has had a wonderful day and that all of us can be thankful for the many blessings we enjoy including the love of family and friends.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has pretty well summed up what we did today. One of the invitations we handed out today was to John Evans. We had tried to find his brother, Kevin, yesterday, but failed. John told me where Kevin lives, and we weren't far off. But there is a lane we need to go out that we passed by yesterday. We'll have to go back there.
Gave another invitation to Sister Tammy Buffam's husband, Derrick. He is a non-member, but very friendly. I told him whenever he needed someone to help him take the fish out of the Montreal River to give me a call because I'm always available! He took my phone number and said he would have to do that real soon!! The Elders have fished off his dock before. Hopefully I might be able to go with him out onto the river. While he fishes for pike, I can try to save a soul!!!!
Everyone have a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I hope everyone has had a wonderful day and that all of us can be thankful for the many blessings we enjoy including the love of family and friends.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has pretty well summed up what we did today. One of the invitations we handed out today was to John Evans. We had tried to find his brother, Kevin, yesterday, but failed. John told me where Kevin lives, and we weren't far off. But there is a lane we need to go out that we passed by yesterday. We'll have to go back there.
Gave another invitation to Sister Tammy Buffam's husband, Derrick. He is a non-member, but very friendly. I told him whenever he needed someone to help him take the fish out of the Montreal River to give me a call because I'm always available! He took my phone number and said he would have to do that real soon!! The Elders have fished off his dock before. Hopefully I might be able to go with him out onto the river. While he fishes for pike, I can try to save a soul!!!!
Everyone have a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 15 August 2016
August 15, 2016
Bob: Not much happened today. We found Sister Church at home. She is the one that had the big dog tired up to the porch. We gave her an invitation to come to church Sunday for Elder Ballard's broadcast. We have heard that her husband is anti, but he didn't seem to be that way when I spoke to him about his boat and fishing on Lake Timiskaming. She said she hadn't been involved with the church in quite a while and that we caught her at a bad time as they were leaving to go fishing. She did say she was baptized in 1999.
Then we went looking for another lost brother. Found a beautiful camp on Lake Timiskaming, but it is a long, slow way into the camp. The cabins looked very nice from the outside. I think they use a generator at night plus the appliances are propane. Also, there is a 'central' shower.
That's about it for the day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today, other than our trip into the wild to find someone we couldn't find, was spent planning out our week. We will be spending lots of time in the car tomorrow going to Engelhart to pick up the Cushman's. We will take them to New Liskeard, probably to Walmart. Then, we will take them back home again. We may have them come to our apartment for dinner before we take them back. We will wait to see how they are feeling. The Cushman's like to eat out whenever they can because the food at their nursing home is not very good. Two other people we could see near Engelhart will not be available tomorrow, unfortunately.
I called today to find out about our background checks from the police department. Someone has retired and because they are short-handed the checks have not been completed yet. It's frustrating to say the least.
May we all have a great day tomorrow where we can accomplish some good!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Then we went looking for another lost brother. Found a beautiful camp on Lake Timiskaming, but it is a long, slow way into the camp. The cabins looked very nice from the outside. I think they use a generator at night plus the appliances are propane. Also, there is a 'central' shower.
That's about it for the day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today, other than our trip into the wild to find someone we couldn't find, was spent planning out our week. We will be spending lots of time in the car tomorrow going to Engelhart to pick up the Cushman's. We will take them to New Liskeard, probably to Walmart. Then, we will take them back home again. We may have them come to our apartment for dinner before we take them back. We will wait to see how they are feeling. The Cushman's like to eat out whenever they can because the food at their nursing home is not very good. Two other people we could see near Engelhart will not be available tomorrow, unfortunately.
I called today to find out about our background checks from the police department. Someone has retired and because they are short-handed the checks have not been completed yet. It's frustrating to say the least.
May we all have a great day tomorrow where we can accomplish some good!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 14 August 2016
August 14, 2016
Bonnie: We've had a great Sabbath Day, although it was hard for Bob to carry the crockpot into the church because it was so full! I made 1/2 more of the recipe to be sure I had enough for the pot luck. I had plenty left over so I will serve it to the missionaries this week. One sister brought a huge roast beef dinner, complete with potatoes and carrots, and another sister brought a large ham, enough to feed all of us. Then, there were other side dishes, drinks, fresh vegetables and desserts. Bob made his specialty macaroni salad, too. One sister had been berry-picking and gave us two sandwich bags of blueberries!! They are worth gold these days. And someone else brought tomatoes from their garden. After the pot luck we met with President Jakob for a few minutes, and also some of the missionaries. There will be a Branch Council after Elder Ballard's broadcast next Sunday. One of the things to be discussed will be starting a FHE group, one in Haileybury and one in Kirkland Lake, open to members and friends and anyone who would like to come. The challenge is that someone from the Branch needs to be in charge of it, so it will continue with or without missionaries. We will probably show a video, share some scriptures, have snacks and then some games.
After we got home, our friend Brad called to ask if we would like to go home teaching with him. So, we got on our Sunday clothes again and spent the evening going to two places--two sisters we hadn't met yet and someone we've been to see many times--Sister Craig. They were good visits.
We will have a fairly busy week, but I will let Bob write about that.
May we all have a wonderful week ahead.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie about covered everything that happened today. Planning on several things this week including a trip to Rouyn on Thursday. Will let you know how things unfold.
Weather warmed up again today and it was very pleasant.
Our friend Brad is remodeling his bathroom so I will be trying to help him some evenings when we don't have anything else going.
That's about it for now. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
After we got home, our friend Brad called to ask if we would like to go home teaching with him. So, we got on our Sunday clothes again and spent the evening going to two places--two sisters we hadn't met yet and someone we've been to see many times--Sister Craig. They were good visits.
We will have a fairly busy week, but I will let Bob write about that.
May we all have a wonderful week ahead.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie about covered everything that happened today. Planning on several things this week including a trip to Rouyn on Thursday. Will let you know how things unfold.
Weather warmed up again today and it was very pleasant.
Our friend Brad is remodeling his bathroom so I will be trying to help him some evenings when we don't have anything else going.
That's about it for now. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Saturday 13 August 2016
August 13, 2016
Bob: Not much going on today. It rained last night quite a bit and the temperature today is quite cooler. I don't think it made to 70, but it was still comfortable. We went berry picking and got about 8 cups because we only got the dregs of the patch. But I am hoping for a couple of delicious pies. May have to supplement with a few store-bought berries, but it won't make much difference.
This afternoon we visited Roxann Wilson and helped her move a couch so she could shampoo both behind it and under it. She didn't want us to help her finish the room even though we volunteered. There are 3 dogs in the house, so it won't stay clean for long. The carpet really needs replaced, but I'm sure she doesn't have the funds for that.
Tonight we were making things for the pot luck at church tomorrow. I cut everything and mixed up the macaroni salad while Bonnie worked on some soup.
That's about it for now. Hope your weekend is going fine. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: The reason we got only 8 cups of raspberries is because it has not been a good growing season for berries this year. It has been too hot and there has been very little rain. We were lucky to get any raspberries. There are very few good blueberry patches this year, too. It's such a shame!
I had to go to a grocery store to buy some specialty sausage for the crock pot soup I am making for the Pot Luck tomorrow. I found out it's a Portuguese sausage that I need. Anyway, I ended up getting something else to use in its place. Then, I made up our special green bean and bacon recipe, with fresh beans given to us by the Branch President's wife. I'll bet Bob is happy I didn't do any more cooking than that because there were lots of dishes tonight!
Tomorrow will be busy. We will be talking to the Branch President, and his counselor and the Relief Society President and the missionaries. Elder Petrowsky will be going home, leaving for Brampton Monday, probably with Elder Vargas who may be transferred. I need an extra-large triple combination brought up here from the mission office by whomever will be coming up here to serve. It's for Sister Wilson. Anyway, we will have lots of people to see.
Tomorrow we are fasting for Elder Ballard, at his request. He will be here next week-end, and he's got a super busy schedule. I wish we could be in Brampton to see him in person, but we can't. All of his general meetings will be broadcast for the Saints here, except for when he talks to the missionaries. That one will be put on a CD and sent to us and we're to destroy it afterwards!! Anyway, I think it's exciting to have an apostle come here!
Happy Sabbath tomorrow, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
This afternoon we visited Roxann Wilson and helped her move a couch so she could shampoo both behind it and under it. She didn't want us to help her finish the room even though we volunteered. There are 3 dogs in the house, so it won't stay clean for long. The carpet really needs replaced, but I'm sure she doesn't have the funds for that.
Tonight we were making things for the pot luck at church tomorrow. I cut everything and mixed up the macaroni salad while Bonnie worked on some soup.
That's about it for now. Hope your weekend is going fine. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: The reason we got only 8 cups of raspberries is because it has not been a good growing season for berries this year. It has been too hot and there has been very little rain. We were lucky to get any raspberries. There are very few good blueberry patches this year, too. It's such a shame!
I had to go to a grocery store to buy some specialty sausage for the crock pot soup I am making for the Pot Luck tomorrow. I found out it's a Portuguese sausage that I need. Anyway, I ended up getting something else to use in its place. Then, I made up our special green bean and bacon recipe, with fresh beans given to us by the Branch President's wife. I'll bet Bob is happy I didn't do any more cooking than that because there were lots of dishes tonight!
Tomorrow will be busy. We will be talking to the Branch President, and his counselor and the Relief Society President and the missionaries. Elder Petrowsky will be going home, leaving for Brampton Monday, probably with Elder Vargas who may be transferred. I need an extra-large triple combination brought up here from the mission office by whomever will be coming up here to serve. It's for Sister Wilson. Anyway, we will have lots of people to see.
Tomorrow we are fasting for Elder Ballard, at his request. He will be here next week-end, and he's got a super busy schedule. I wish we could be in Brampton to see him in person, but we can't. All of his general meetings will be broadcast for the Saints here, except for when he talks to the missionaries. That one will be put on a CD and sent to us and we're to destroy it afterwards!! Anyway, I think it's exciting to have an apostle come here!
Happy Sabbath tomorrow, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 12 August 2016
August 12, 2016
Bonnie: We made it back to our apartment in good time, arriving here about 3:30. We even took a short tour of North Bay on the way home. We then went for a walk which felt good after being in the car for so long. Next was the shopping which can be disheartening because everything is so expensive! There will be a pot luck Sunday and I want to have the Elders over one day next week. I needed lots of groceries. Oh, well. Such is missionary life!
Tomorrow I hope to go raspberry picking in the morning. I understand that it has not been a very good berry season this summer because of all of the heat. But it's worth a try. Then, we hope to see one of our less-actives. Hopefully she has read some of the Book Mormon and we can teach her a "lesson". It would be great if she could come to church Sunday.
Until tomorrow,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much left to say. We did stop in North Bay at a conservation area on the shores of Lake Nipissing. It was only 63 degrees per the car temperature and the wind was blowing. So Bonnie decided to stay in the car. I walked up to the lake's edge. Several ducks and gulls were there. Put a couple of pictures below.
After, we stopped at Dairy Queen for a treat for Bonnie and at Wendy's for my frosty.
Tonight we are watching 2 Murdoch mysteries to get caught up for Wednesday and Thursday.
Hope everyone has a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tomorrow I hope to go raspberry picking in the morning. I understand that it has not been a very good berry season this summer because of all of the heat. But it's worth a try. Then, we hope to see one of our less-actives. Hopefully she has read some of the Book Mormon and we can teach her a "lesson". It would be great if she could come to church Sunday.
Until tomorrow,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much left to say. We did stop in North Bay at a conservation area on the shores of Lake Nipissing. It was only 63 degrees per the car temperature and the wind was blowing. So Bonnie decided to stay in the car. I walked up to the lake's edge. Several ducks and gulls were there. Put a couple of pictures below.
After, we stopped at Dairy Queen for a treat for Bonnie and at Wendy's for my frosty.
Tonight we are watching 2 Murdoch mysteries to get caught up for Wednesday and Thursday.
Hope everyone has a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
The gull
The duck
Town on the way north (can you pronounce it?)
Thursday 11 August 2016
August 11, 2016
Bob: Nice, hot day in Brampton. Got a little rain this evening, but not much. Highlight of the day was the Temple session with the returning missionaries. Afterwards the Youngbergs, Erickson's, Cannons, Wolfleys and us went to dinner at the Lone Star. Had a great time talking to all of them. We've loaded up some things so we can go by 9:00 in the morning. Have to give the key to Youngbergs and they want to leave at 9:00 to run some errands. We don't want to take the key to the office as that would add another hour to our trip. Also, we must start early to get ahead of the week enders heading north to their cottage.
Better close. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's been a lovely day, especially to talk with the missionaries. We also talked with President and Sister Shields. They seem to be doing well with all of their new responsibilities. The temple session was awesome. We'll post pictures tomorrow night, hopefully. We also saw several of our temple missionary friends. It truly was a great day! I hope everyone has had a wonderful day as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Better close. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's been a lovely day, especially to talk with the missionaries. We also talked with President and Sister Shields. They seem to be doing well with all of their new responsibilities. The temple session was awesome. We'll post pictures tomorrow night, hopefully. We also saw several of our temple missionary friends. It truly was a great day! I hope everyone has had a wonderful day as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 10 August 2016
August 10, 2016
Bob: It's been a long day with the drive to Brampton. Left at 1:30 and arrived at Costco at 7:00. We stopped to pick up my prescriptions. Also had to make a return to Bed, Bath, & Beyond, stop at the ATM, plus go to Walmart. Got to the apartment about 9:00. It is much hotter here than Temiskaming. Elder Budgett had the a/c on and it feels good. Their fan blows all the time so it helps keep the air moving.
Stop to see 4 people before we left. One non-member husband walked up to the door, opened it slightly, and said, 'I'm not interested!" Then he immediately shut the door, turned and walked away. He's the worst we've had so far. Another wasn't home. Left the home teaching message with her roommate. Left same message with another sister and left brownies with the final sister.
Going to quit as this is hard to do on the tablet. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie : We are happily situated in the Budgett's apartment. What a blessing it is to be here! We are looking forward to going to the office tomorrow. Bob has some money for Elder Wolfley and I want to get some supplies. Bob will be getting his hair cut in the morning so it will be about noon when we get there. The best part will be going to the Temple, of course. I feel so blessed at the moment!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Stop to see 4 people before we left. One non-member husband walked up to the door, opened it slightly, and said, 'I'm not interested!" Then he immediately shut the door, turned and walked away. He's the worst we've had so far. Another wasn't home. Left the home teaching message with her roommate. Left same message with another sister and left brownies with the final sister.
Going to quit as this is hard to do on the tablet. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie : We are happily situated in the Budgett's apartment. What a blessing it is to be here! We are looking forward to going to the office tomorrow. Bob has some money for Elder Wolfley and I want to get some supplies. Bob will be getting his hair cut in the morning so it will be about noon when we get there. The best part will be going to the Temple, of course. I feel so blessed at the moment!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 9 August 2016
August 9, 2016
Bob: One thing I have forgotten to mention the last 2 days is that the price of gas has dropped to 99.9/liter. That is the 2nd drop since we have been here.
The big thing of today is that we visited the Villneff's tonight and taught them the Restoration lesson. We will be going back next Wednesday to teach them the Plan of Salvation lesson.
Tomorrow we will be going to Brampton and staying in the Budgett's apartment. I don't think we will have internet access so there may not be blog additions for a while. Will try to add something by using another computer, but I'm not sure.
Hope everyone had a good day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Bob spent the morning helping to move a ramp at the home of a part-member couple. It took him about 4 hours. So, I cleaned the oven and then walked to downtown Haileybury to the post office and the library. They are both close by. It's really nice to be within walking distance of these rather important places.
I enjoyed visiting with our friends Margaret and Norm Villneff who have allowed us to re-teach them the missionary discussions. There is a ray of hope that she will come back to church. We're not so sure about him.
We will try to do some missionary work of some kind tomorrow before we leave for Brampton. Going down there takes so much time out of our week. We probably won't leave until 1:00 or 2. I hope we can do some service of some kind, too. We are still waiting to hear about our background checks with the Ontario Provincial Police. Until then, we are at a stand-still.
Our love to all. May the Lord bless all of us tonight and tomorrow!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
The big thing of today is that we visited the Villneff's tonight and taught them the Restoration lesson. We will be going back next Wednesday to teach them the Plan of Salvation lesson.
Tomorrow we will be going to Brampton and staying in the Budgett's apartment. I don't think we will have internet access so there may not be blog additions for a while. Will try to add something by using another computer, but I'm not sure.
Hope everyone had a good day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Bob spent the morning helping to move a ramp at the home of a part-member couple. It took him about 4 hours. So, I cleaned the oven and then walked to downtown Haileybury to the post office and the library. They are both close by. It's really nice to be within walking distance of these rather important places.
I enjoyed visiting with our friends Margaret and Norm Villneff who have allowed us to re-teach them the missionary discussions. There is a ray of hope that she will come back to church. We're not so sure about him.
We will try to do some missionary work of some kind tomorrow before we leave for Brampton. Going down there takes so much time out of our week. We probably won't leave until 1:00 or 2. I hope we can do some service of some kind, too. We are still waiting to hear about our background checks with the Ontario Provincial Police. Until then, we are at a stand-still.
Our love to all. May the Lord bless all of us tonight and tomorrow!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 8 August 2016
August 8, 2016
Bob: Very good day. Went swimming and increased my personal best. Problem is the pool is now closed for a week so repairs can be made to the slide. I'll probably regress some in that time.
Visited with a less active man, and a non-member spouse today. Had a good gospel discuss with each of them. The discussions weren't long, and neither objected, but they both contained a spiritual message. Hope we can build on those when we go back.
We also saw a couple from Brantford today. They just arrived and will be here a couple of weeks. We knew them from 2 years ago. As I was talking to the less-active man I saw them headed down the lane to their camper so I thought we would drop in as their 'home teachers'. When we left he said it would count as home teaching if I offered a prayer. One of the earliest times in the month that I've done any home teaching!!
Invited Brad and his daughters over for FHE but the girls were packing for a church trip tomorrow. Brad came over and had some of Bonnie's home-made brownies that she doctored up with whipped topping and ice cream. The brownies didn't get done in the center and she is trying to figure out why. One sister suggested that the cooking time and temperature need to be adjusted when using a glass baking dish. Any blog readers have an idea???
Well I had better close. Still have Murdoch to watch before bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Another good day. Bob did well writing about it. The only thing I want to add is that I got a new skirt and a sweater/jacket today at a consignment shop where the wife of a non-member works. I'm always looking for a good deal and this was it! Wearing the same clothes day after day is tiring, I think. So now I have something new to wear. I will have to give away lots of my clothes before coming home, but that doesn't bother me. Maybe a missionary or someone else will want to have them.
Have a wonderful evening, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Visited with a less active man, and a non-member spouse today. Had a good gospel discuss with each of them. The discussions weren't long, and neither objected, but they both contained a spiritual message. Hope we can build on those when we go back.
We also saw a couple from Brantford today. They just arrived and will be here a couple of weeks. We knew them from 2 years ago. As I was talking to the less-active man I saw them headed down the lane to their camper so I thought we would drop in as their 'home teachers'. When we left he said it would count as home teaching if I offered a prayer. One of the earliest times in the month that I've done any home teaching!!
Invited Brad and his daughters over for FHE but the girls were packing for a church trip tomorrow. Brad came over and had some of Bonnie's home-made brownies that she doctored up with whipped topping and ice cream. The brownies didn't get done in the center and she is trying to figure out why. One sister suggested that the cooking time and temperature need to be adjusted when using a glass baking dish. Any blog readers have an idea???
Well I had better close. Still have Murdoch to watch before bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Another good day. Bob did well writing about it. The only thing I want to add is that I got a new skirt and a sweater/jacket today at a consignment shop where the wife of a non-member works. I'm always looking for a good deal and this was it! Wearing the same clothes day after day is tiring, I think. So now I have something new to wear. I will have to give away lots of my clothes before coming home, but that doesn't bother me. Maybe a missionary or someone else will want to have them.
Have a wonderful evening, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 7 August 2016
August 7, 2016
Bonnie: We met President Jakob at 9:00 this morning in Englehart, having left our apartment about 8:15. We rode with him to a library in Rouyn/Noranda, Quebec where services are held for the members. There was a small group but a faithful one! It was so sweet because one of the women translated for us. When Pres. Jakob and Bob bore their testimonies she translated it into French and when those speaking French spoke she translated it into English. She diligently did this for all three meetings, and just for me, basically, in Relief Society. We got home about 4:00. After dinner we had a walk on the waterfront. It has been a "beautiful weather" day.
I like what Bob shared in his testimony--things that Bishop Finnigan told each new YSA after they were baptized. He told them that we are a church of sinners trying to be Saints, that someone might offend them don't let it bother them, and that Satan will try extra hard to tempt them. I think that's good advice for all of us to remember.
Bob and I will plan out our week and then head for bed. It's been a glorious Sabbath.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It sure doesn't seem that far to Rouyn, but it took about 2 hours driving time going through Englehart. If we drive over directly we would go a different route and save about 20 minutes. They meet on the 1st Sunday of the month only. It takes about an hour and 20 minutes more to get to Val d'Or, Ontario which meets on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
Met Brother Marc Gionet today. He is an Elder that has been less active for years. He recently moved back to Rouyn and has started attending again. I talked to him quite a bit today. When we were leaving, I told him we would come to see him the next time we were in Rouyn. He remarked that there was a meeting in Haileybury next week and he would see me then. Bonnie and I are supposed to go meet his wife, Rose, the next time we go over. She only speaks French and is a non-member. He said in the past she shies away from the missionaries. I'll let Sister Martin work her charm on her!!
It was beautiful down by the lake tonight. We didn't see any boats come in, but there were some out on the water.
Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Been reading 'Kipawa Chronicles' again. It is written by Scott Sorenson who lives in Orem, but owns a tourist camp on the Kipawa River/Lake Timiskaming about an hour 20 minutes from here. Here is an aerial view of the camp. The white foam in the river to the right is rapids. The white streak at the top middle going down to the left is the road, and it is quite steep. Most vehicles must park up in the woods and walk down to the camp.
I like what Bob shared in his testimony--things that Bishop Finnigan told each new YSA after they were baptized. He told them that we are a church of sinners trying to be Saints, that someone might offend them don't let it bother them, and that Satan will try extra hard to tempt them. I think that's good advice for all of us to remember.
Bob and I will plan out our week and then head for bed. It's been a glorious Sabbath.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It sure doesn't seem that far to Rouyn, but it took about 2 hours driving time going through Englehart. If we drive over directly we would go a different route and save about 20 minutes. They meet on the 1st Sunday of the month only. It takes about an hour and 20 minutes more to get to Val d'Or, Ontario which meets on the 3rd Sunday of the month.
Met Brother Marc Gionet today. He is an Elder that has been less active for years. He recently moved back to Rouyn and has started attending again. I talked to him quite a bit today. When we were leaving, I told him we would come to see him the next time we were in Rouyn. He remarked that there was a meeting in Haileybury next week and he would see me then. Bonnie and I are supposed to go meet his wife, Rose, the next time we go over. She only speaks French and is a non-member. He said in the past she shies away from the missionaries. I'll let Sister Martin work her charm on her!!
It was beautiful down by the lake tonight. We didn't see any boats come in, but there were some out on the water.
Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Picture of Rouyn I got off the Internet
Been reading 'Kipawa Chronicles' again. It is written by Scott Sorenson who lives in Orem, but owns a tourist camp on the Kipawa River/Lake Timiskaming about an hour 20 minutes from here. Here is an aerial view of the camp. The white foam in the river to the right is rapids. The white streak at the top middle going down to the left is the road, and it is quite steep. Most vehicles must park up in the woods and walk down to the camp.
Kipawa River Lodge
Saturday 6 August 2016
August 6, 2016
Bonnie: Today we learned something new--what "key indicators" are. In preparation for Elder Arnold's visit, which will be in September, the MLS missionaries (in other words, all of the Senior couples who are assigned outside of the Greater Toronto Area) must bring their planners with their key indicators, plus some other information about their Branches. The missionaries are taught all about this in the MTC, but it was not taught to the senior couples. We found out today after talking to our missionaries, that key indicators are explained in Preach My Gospel. Anyway, this information must be brought with us to our meeting with him. We are learning more and more each day about what we should be saying and doing. We had a very good day, today I feel. I will let Bob write about it.
I have just finished surface cleaning the apartment and I'm ready to read some more of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or watch a "Murdoch Mystery" and then go to bed. We have to leave for Quebec about 8:15 in the morning. Let's have a special fast day tomorrow, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We tried visiting 3 less-actives today. One was in bed according to her roommate. The second one greeted us at the door and stated he was having a birthday party for his daughter, but said we could come back. The other 'couple' was at home. She is a member, but he is not. We had a good conversation with them and are supposed to go back next Tuesday evening.
After stopping for lunch we tried 3 more in the Cobalt area. The first one had a very large dog tied up to the entrance steps so I decided another time might be better! Then we stopped to see an older lady who has quite a background. We talked to her for a while and set up a return appointment to teach her about the restoration of the church. The final person was Connie, short for Conrad. He was outside cutting firewood for an order and couldn't talk long, but said we could go on a tour of Cobalt next month. We'll keep in touch with him.
Well it is time to retire. We will have to rise early in the morning. Bonnie will get up before me, though, so she'll have to set the clock. Hope you are having a great weekend. Love to all & good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I have just finished surface cleaning the apartment and I'm ready to read some more of "Uncle Tom's Cabin" or watch a "Murdoch Mystery" and then go to bed. We have to leave for Quebec about 8:15 in the morning. Let's have a special fast day tomorrow, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We tried visiting 3 less-actives today. One was in bed according to her roommate. The second one greeted us at the door and stated he was having a birthday party for his daughter, but said we could come back. The other 'couple' was at home. She is a member, but he is not. We had a good conversation with them and are supposed to go back next Tuesday evening.
After stopping for lunch we tried 3 more in the Cobalt area. The first one had a very large dog tied up to the entrance steps so I decided another time might be better! Then we stopped to see an older lady who has quite a background. We talked to her for a while and set up a return appointment to teach her about the restoration of the church. The final person was Connie, short for Conrad. He was outside cutting firewood for an order and couldn't talk long, but said we could go on a tour of Cobalt next month. We'll keep in touch with him.
Well it is time to retire. We will have to rise early in the morning. Bonnie will get up before me, though, so she'll have to set the clock. Hope you are having a great weekend. Love to all & good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Friday 5 August 2016
August 5, 2016
Bob: Visited with Sister Darlene Barker today. She lives alone and has home care everyday. I don't think she can get out much at all. Another sister in the Branch does her shopping for her. Went back to the hospital to visit with Sister Craig today and met her daughter who has a year round camping spot at Elk Cabins in Elk Lake. Tried calling another sister but she didn't answer. Stopped to see the daughter of the 1st Counselor in our Branch Presidency, but she wasn't home either.
After dinner Brother and Sister Cambridge came by and dropped off a check I need to take to Rouyn this Sunday. We had a good visit with them. The phone rang right before they left so Bonnie walked them out. When she didn't come back I went to look for her because I thought she might not have taken a key with her. As I started down the hall here she came with Claudette, who lives on the 2nd floor, and 2 visitors of hers. They are French and so Bonnie tried her French on them. I'll let her explain what she talked to them about.
Karl called and wants us to meet him in Englehart Sunday and ride with him to Rouyn. It will be a longer ride for us, but not so bad on our gas tank! The church pays for them to travel over there.
Better close and let Bonnie tell you what's going on. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Claudette is a very friendly French woman who lives upstairs. I met her taking the Cambridges to the front of the building. I only teasingly said I was trying to learn how to speak French and said, "Nous mangeons des pommes vertes et rouges". It means we are eating red and green apples. I can translate simple sentences and try to speak them but I'm not any good at conversational french. We have some CDs given to us by another missionary couple with French conversational phrases on it. I guess that's what I should be studying!
It's been a good day. I hope for a good one tomorrow, too, for all of us reading this blog!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
After dinner Brother and Sister Cambridge came by and dropped off a check I need to take to Rouyn this Sunday. We had a good visit with them. The phone rang right before they left so Bonnie walked them out. When she didn't come back I went to look for her because I thought she might not have taken a key with her. As I started down the hall here she came with Claudette, who lives on the 2nd floor, and 2 visitors of hers. They are French and so Bonnie tried her French on them. I'll let her explain what she talked to them about.
Karl called and wants us to meet him in Englehart Sunday and ride with him to Rouyn. It will be a longer ride for us, but not so bad on our gas tank! The church pays for them to travel over there.
Better close and let Bonnie tell you what's going on. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Claudette is a very friendly French woman who lives upstairs. I met her taking the Cambridges to the front of the building. I only teasingly said I was trying to learn how to speak French and said, "Nous mangeons des pommes vertes et rouges". It means we are eating red and green apples. I can translate simple sentences and try to speak them but I'm not any good at conversational french. We have some CDs given to us by another missionary couple with French conversational phrases on it. I guess that's what I should be studying!
It's been a good day. I hope for a good one tomorrow, too, for all of us reading this blog!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Thursday 4 August 2016
August 4, 2016
Bonnie: It was a very long day today, with lots of driving. In fact, we drove about 200 miles! We could not find two people, and many others were not home. But, we had some good conversations with the few members who were at home. One would like to come to church but needs a ride. That will be hard because so many need rides in Kirkland Lake already. But, the Lord will provide. We left about 10:15 and got home about 8:30 tonight. I made a lunch and we ate dinner out at a family diner in Englehart. We are both tired. But, at least we know where most of the branch members live now, in Ontario. Sunday we will go to Quebec. That will be another story.
It's good to be home and to relax. May all of us have a relaxing evening!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It was a long day. When we got home I tried to call President Jakob, but there is no phone service. Rogers service to this area is spotty at best, but tonight there is no service at all.
Tonight we ate at 'Cousins' a small diner/motel in Englehart. We both ordered off the 'Senior' menu and were quite satisfied with our portions. I got hamburger steak with gravy and onions and sides of french fries and peas. Bonnie got chicken with rice and peas. We waited till we got to New Liskeard to get a dessert. I wanted a Frosty, but Bonnie wouldn't get one. She opted for a McFlurry at McDonalds.
Did get my new Costco Visa cards today. They were sent so we could start using them on June 20th. Mail is a little slow!!
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
It's good to be home and to relax. May all of us have a relaxing evening!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It was a long day. When we got home I tried to call President Jakob, but there is no phone service. Rogers service to this area is spotty at best, but tonight there is no service at all.
Tonight we ate at 'Cousins' a small diner/motel in Englehart. We both ordered off the 'Senior' menu and were quite satisfied with our portions. I got hamburger steak with gravy and onions and sides of french fries and peas. Bonnie got chicken with rice and peas. We waited till we got to New Liskeard to get a dessert. I wanted a Frosty, but Bonnie wouldn't get one. She opted for a McFlurry at McDonalds.
Did get my new Costco Visa cards today. They were sent so we could start using them on June 20th. Mail is a little slow!!
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Wednesday 3 August 2016
August 3, 2016
Bob: Went swimming with Bonnie this morning. Swimming is getting better each time I go. I'm swimming more laps using the crawl. Not sure how many laps Bonnie swam, but I beat her out of the dressing rooms.
Met with the Elders and the Cambridge's today. We spent about 2 and a half hours going over the Branch list and then she fixed lunch for everyone. After lunch we went to visit Brenda and Ian Coe. They live way out of town in humble circumstances, but were very cordial in receiving us. They said we can come visit again.
The Cambridge's then showed us where Sister Flannigan lives. We need to call her before we go out.
Afterwards we picked up a couple of items at Walmart, went to the library and bank. When we got home I laid down for a long nap. My left thigh has been hurting for a couple of days now and I don't know what I did to it. Took an ibuprofen when we got home and I'm feeling better tonight. We'll see how it is in the morning.
We have about a dozen people to look up tomorrow in the Kirkland Lake/Englehart area. Have one appointment for sure.
Watched episode one of season two of the Murdoch mysteries tonight. The library has 8 seasons we can check out. They only let you have them for a week at a time and one renewal so we need to watch at least one a day.
Got a book about the early history of New Liskeard. Around 1897 they built the first bridge here over the Wabi River. It was a pontoon bridge. The builder collected $1 from every family to build it. He got $22 in total and built the bridge. Late in the summer one of the landowners claimed livestock was coming across the bridge and getting into his pastures. So he built a barrier at the end of the bridge that everyone had to climb over. One night some of the other townsfolk went to the bridge and cut it loose. The next morning it had floated away down the lake.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. We have a full day tomorrow of trying to find people. One is an investigator and one couple is quite active. But, there are about 10 or 11 others that we will see if we can locate. I will be packing a lunch for us and then we will stop somewhere for dinner. I'm sure it will be a great day, the Lord willing.
May all of us have a day tomorrow of accomplishing something good!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Met with the Elders and the Cambridge's today. We spent about 2 and a half hours going over the Branch list and then she fixed lunch for everyone. After lunch we went to visit Brenda and Ian Coe. They live way out of town in humble circumstances, but were very cordial in receiving us. They said we can come visit again.
The Cambridge's then showed us where Sister Flannigan lives. We need to call her before we go out.
Afterwards we picked up a couple of items at Walmart, went to the library and bank. When we got home I laid down for a long nap. My left thigh has been hurting for a couple of days now and I don't know what I did to it. Took an ibuprofen when we got home and I'm feeling better tonight. We'll see how it is in the morning.
We have about a dozen people to look up tomorrow in the Kirkland Lake/Englehart area. Have one appointment for sure.
Watched episode one of season two of the Murdoch mysteries tonight. The library has 8 seasons we can check out. They only let you have them for a week at a time and one renewal so we need to watch at least one a day.
Got a book about the early history of New Liskeard. Around 1897 they built the first bridge here over the Wabi River. It was a pontoon bridge. The builder collected $1 from every family to build it. He got $22 in total and built the bridge. Late in the summer one of the landowners claimed livestock was coming across the bridge and getting into his pastures. So he built a barrier at the end of the bridge that everyone had to climb over. One night some of the other townsfolk went to the bridge and cut it loose. The next morning it had floated away down the lake.
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. We have a full day tomorrow of trying to find people. One is an investigator and one couple is quite active. But, there are about 10 or 11 others that we will see if we can locate. I will be packing a lunch for us and then we will stop somewhere for dinner. I'm sure it will be a great day, the Lord willing.
May all of us have a day tomorrow of accomplishing something good!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 2 August 2016
August 2, 2016
Bob: Not much to report today except that we had the Temiskaming Elders, Brad and his daughter Kayla over this evening for dinner. Kayla will be putting in her mission papers later this year when she turns 19. We have a meeting planned with the Branch Missionaries, Warren and Evelyn Cambridge plus the Elders tomorrow morning at 11:00 to go over the membership and who's being taught and who is working on reactivation right now.
Did take a short walk with Bonnie this morning before our study time.
Other than that not much going on right now. Did go swimming today as the pool was closed on Monday. Going again in the morning. Don't know how 2 days in a row will feel.
My love to everyone. Have a great day tomorrow and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I was busy most of the afternoon working on our meal. It was a success! I fixed some sour cream chicken enchiladas and salad and chips. The best part was the guacamole, if I do say so myself.
In the past I've used a package mix for it, but I can't find any up here. So, I went on-line and it turned out great. One of our Elders is from Mexico, though, and I doubt he was impressed. The best part of our meal was the message the Elders gave. Each shared one of the high-lights of his mission so far. Each bore a strong testimony of the gospel.
A disappointing thing was the library not being open today. I would like more books to read. But, I got my prescriptions filled at a local pharmacy in New Liskeard after picking up Bob at the pool. That worked out quite well.
I will be trying the pool again tomorrow. I may go once a week with Bob on Wednesdays. We will be leaving about 7 in the morning. Yuck!
Sleep tight, everyone and have a wonderful day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Did take a short walk with Bonnie this morning before our study time.
Other than that not much going on right now. Did go swimming today as the pool was closed on Monday. Going again in the morning. Don't know how 2 days in a row will feel.
My love to everyone. Have a great day tomorrow and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I was busy most of the afternoon working on our meal. It was a success! I fixed some sour cream chicken enchiladas and salad and chips. The best part was the guacamole, if I do say so myself.
In the past I've used a package mix for it, but I can't find any up here. So, I went on-line and it turned out great. One of our Elders is from Mexico, though, and I doubt he was impressed. The best part of our meal was the message the Elders gave. Each shared one of the high-lights of his mission so far. Each bore a strong testimony of the gospel.
A disappointing thing was the library not being open today. I would like more books to read. But, I got my prescriptions filled at a local pharmacy in New Liskeard after picking up Bob at the pool. That worked out quite well.
I will be trying the pool again tomorrow. I may go once a week with Bob on Wednesdays. We will be leaving about 7 in the morning. Yuck!
Sleep tight, everyone and have a wonderful day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 1 August 2016
August 1, 2016
Bob: Beautiful day here. Took a long walk this morning and knocked about 3 minutes off the time when I walked the same route a couple weeks ago. Going to swim the next 2 days though. Pool was closed today.
We went looking for some more members today. Found the 'former' homes of 2 members. One person said she had moved there during March, so our member moved before that. Another couple said they had been there between 3 and 4 years. So our member moved a long time ago. Tried 2 others but they weren't home. Did get to visit 2 other sisters, though.
Before dinner we drove out to the path that leads to Devil's Rock to see if my sign is still there. Bonnie took the picture below.
Watched 2 Murdock Mysteries tonight because we must return the DVD in the morning. One to go.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had an interesting day with our visits. We spent quite a bit of time with one sister, close to two hours! I love the visiting, though. Everyone has a story to tell.
Bob is quite happy that the sign he made two years ago is still there. If anyone comes to visit us up here, we will take you on the trail to Devil's Rock. After you emerge from the forest you come out to a cropping of rocks that overlooks Timiskaming Lake, but the lake is 300' below you. It's a gorgeous view. And in the summer there are usually wild blueberries to pick along the way.
The big thing tomorrow will be feeding the missionaries. They surely do have healthy appetites! I hope everyone has something wonderful to look forward to tomorrow, as well!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Devil's Rock View (Bare rock in center of photo is lookout)
We went looking for some more members today. Found the 'former' homes of 2 members. One person said she had moved there during March, so our member moved before that. Another couple said they had been there between 3 and 4 years. So our member moved a long time ago. Tried 2 others but they weren't home. Did get to visit 2 other sisters, though.
Before dinner we drove out to the path that leads to Devil's Rock to see if my sign is still there. Bonnie took the picture below.
Watched 2 Murdock Mysteries tonight because we must return the DVD in the morning. One to go.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had an interesting day with our visits. We spent quite a bit of time with one sister, close to two hours! I love the visiting, though. Everyone has a story to tell.
Bob is quite happy that the sign he made two years ago is still there. If anyone comes to visit us up here, we will take you on the trail to Devil's Rock. After you emerge from the forest you come out to a cropping of rocks that overlooks Timiskaming Lake, but the lake is 300' below you. It's a gorgeous view. And in the summer there are usually wild blueberries to pick along the way.
The big thing tomorrow will be feeding the missionaries. They surely do have healthy appetites! I hope everyone has something wonderful to look forward to tomorrow, as well!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob and his sign
Trailhead marker for Devil's Rock
Devil's Rock View (Bare rock in center of photo is lookout)
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