Bob: Went swimming today. Swam 20 laps which equates to 1000 meters. Not sure of the time, but I think is was around 40 minutes. In Utah I was swimming 1500 meters in about 45 minutes, but I was using flippers. Not using them here. Felt pretty good when I finished. Will keep on trying to up the laps.
Went back to Sister Simon's to see if we could fix the leak. Got it to quit leaking, but I am not sure the problem is completely solved. She said she would watch it over the weekend. The only thing we can do now is replace everything under the sink.
Bonnie and I then delivered invitations to General Conference to several people in the Cobalt - New Liskeard area. We're hoping some will come to at least a session of conference.
While we were delivering the invitations we remembered that we had to deliver 'Meals on Wheels' at 3:45. It was 4:05 then. We hurried back to deliver the meals. The recipients had been told the meals would come between 4 and 5. We were able to get all of them delivered before 5, so we were okay.
After dinner we went to visit Donna Craig in the hospital. She informed us that she is on a no sweets diet and that she has turned all her troubles over to the Lord. She seems to be softening quite a bit. However, she is quite upset that she cannot have her dog with her and that her children are getting ready to sell her house. She said they are having the 2nd yard sell this weekend.
That's about it for the week. Hope you have a great weekend and that you find some uplifting messages during conference. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't know anything to add to what Bob has written. It's been a very good day.
I'm really looking forward to Conference tomorrow. And I hope that some of our less-actives will watch at least part of it.
May we all enjoy listening to our prophet and the apostles and other church leaders!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 30 September 2016
Thursday 29 September 2016
September 29, 2016
Bob: Went for a walk this morning. The weather was very, very nice. In the 60s with bright sunshine. Started with my vest on, but had to take it off about half way through the walk. Walked for just about an hour.
Waited all morning for the EQ President to call me to go home teaching, but he never called. While Bonnie was away doing some VT I worked some more on our 2015 taxes. Hopefully the accountant has all the needed information.
This afternoon we went to Sister Simon's to help her fix a water leak under the kitchen sink. After several attempts to get it stopped I called in some reinforcements, but we never got it to quit
leaking. So we will return tomorrow morning and put a new piece of pipe and connections on for her. That should solve the problem.
Will now turn this over to Bonnie. Love to all and good night brothers.
Bob/Dad
Bonnie: We were on our way to deliver invitations to General Conference when Bob decided to stop by a Sister's house to fix a leak under her kitchen sink. We got there about 3:00 and left about 7:15 and it still wasn't fixed. I hope the problem can be solved quickly tomorrow morning. We will be doing Meals on Wheels tomorrow about 3:45 so that doesn't give us much time to deliver invitations. It's really been a good day, though. At least we were doing some service today.
May everyone sleep tight tonight, and be grateful for our blessings.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Waited all morning for the EQ President to call me to go home teaching, but he never called. While Bonnie was away doing some VT I worked some more on our 2015 taxes. Hopefully the accountant has all the needed information.
This afternoon we went to Sister Simon's to help her fix a water leak under the kitchen sink. After several attempts to get it stopped I called in some reinforcements, but we never got it to quit
leaking. So we will return tomorrow morning and put a new piece of pipe and connections on for her. That should solve the problem.
Will now turn this over to Bonnie. Love to all and good night brothers.
Bob/Dad
Bonnie: We were on our way to deliver invitations to General Conference when Bob decided to stop by a Sister's house to fix a leak under her kitchen sink. We got there about 3:00 and left about 7:15 and it still wasn't fixed. I hope the problem can be solved quickly tomorrow morning. We will be doing Meals on Wheels tomorrow about 3:45 so that doesn't give us much time to deliver invitations. It's really been a good day, though. At least we were doing some service today.
May everyone sleep tight tonight, and be grateful for our blessings.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Dan's play thing!!
Crossleys at Cafe Rio
Lucas, the newest grandchild
The Keyes family
Escaped missionaries!!
Wednesday 28 September 2016
September 28, 2016
Bonnie and Bob: Today Bob worked on taxes and figured out how much we spent on our trip to the States. We spent quite a bit of money but it was well worth it. There is nothing like holding a grand-baby for the first time, especially Lucas, with his big brown eyes and strawberry blonde hair. He is a sweety, for sure! I enjoyed so many little things during our trip--Michael's hugs and Gwyn's cheer-leading for the Cougars at the big game. It was great to talk to the teen-agers, too. Katie and Evie are both attending Seminary and doing well in school. We watched Ammon play football. He did well. I also loved watching Daphne and Sarah together. I'm so happy they are close cousins! Jonathan, Jackson, Allie Jane and Serenity are growing up much too fast. Sunday after we ate dinner together we celebrated all of the birthdays in September and October, except for adults. Five grandchildren had birthdays out of the families that were there. It was very fun.
Today I went visiting teaching to Englehart with Sister Voterro. We saw Karol and had a wonderful conversation with her. She is a very special person. Then, we got ready for a Pot Luck dinner in the Common Room for everyone in our apartment building. It was a huge success. A table had to be set up in the hall, there were so many there. We will look forward to this the last Wednesday of every month. There was even a man who sang several songs as he played his guitar for us. A very nice ending to the day.
We hope everyone has had a great day as well. We love you all.
Mom/Bonnie, Dad/Bob
Today I went visiting teaching to Englehart with Sister Voterro. We saw Karol and had a wonderful conversation with her. She is a very special person. Then, we got ready for a Pot Luck dinner in the Common Room for everyone in our apartment building. It was a huge success. A table had to be set up in the hall, there were so many there. We will look forward to this the last Wednesday of every month. There was even a man who sang several songs as he played his guitar for us. A very nice ending to the day.
We hope everyone has had a great day as well. We love you all.
Mom/Bonnie, Dad/Bob
Tuesday 27 September 2016
September 27, 2016
Bob and Bonnie: We left the temple at exactly 6:00 per the car clock and arrived in our Haileybury parking spot at 10:48. That included one stop for gas. We made great time on all the roads.
Said good bye to 2 of the Farsi Elders, Vanderzanden and Atkinson. In addition, Elder Wehi who has an Australian accent is leaving, too. He and I are known for our accents. Elder Wehi is working on developing a southern drawl, but still has a ways to go. And Sister Hannah Smith, who arrived in the Mission on May 4th when we did, is also leaving.
We went to lunch with Elder and Sister Budgett today, to the Red Lobster. I must say that not everything was real good. My clam chowder tasted like it was burnt. Bonnie's and my fish fillets weren't very warm either. Don't think we'll go back there.
I was able to get my hair cut. Trying to arrange a haircut from a barber who is 300 miles away takes a lot of planning. I told her today to cut 6 weeks off and I would be back!!
Said good bye to Elder and Sister Erickson today. They are heading home on Friday. They entered the MTC a week ahead of us and have been in the office their entire mission. Sad to see them go. Also, one of the temple couples, Elder and Sister Matheson will be gone by the time we return to Brampton in November.
Well it's time to get to bed. Hope your day was as great as ours. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Said good bye to 2 of the Farsi Elders, Vanderzanden and Atkinson. In addition, Elder Wehi who has an Australian accent is leaving, too. He and I are known for our accents. Elder Wehi is working on developing a southern drawl, but still has a ways to go. And Sister Hannah Smith, who arrived in the Mission on May 4th when we did, is also leaving.
We went to lunch with Elder and Sister Budgett today, to the Red Lobster. I must say that not everything was real good. My clam chowder tasted like it was burnt. Bonnie's and my fish fillets weren't very warm either. Don't think we'll go back there.
I was able to get my hair cut. Trying to arrange a haircut from a barber who is 300 miles away takes a lot of planning. I told her today to cut 6 weeks off and I would be back!!
Said good bye to Elder and Sister Erickson today. They are heading home on Friday. They entered the MTC a week ahead of us and have been in the office their entire mission. Sad to see them go. Also, one of the temple couples, Elder and Sister Matheson will be gone by the time we return to Brampton in November.
Well it's time to get to bed. Hope your day was as great as ours. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 26 September 2016
September 26, 201
Bob and Bonnie: We left Chris and Suzy's about 9:15 and got here about 5:45. We made 3 stops including lunch. I'm not sure my GPS brought us the quickest way. I think it went wrong at Danville, NY. But we finally made it to Target in Niagara Falls. We were less than 60 seconds at the border. No lines and he only asked where we were from and where we're staying in Canada.
I'll quit for now. Had to write this on my phone. Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
I'll quit for now. Had to write this on my phone. Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 25 September 2016
September 25, 2016
Bob and Bonnie: Very interesting day. Met Bishop Finnigan's brother in Dan and Misty's Branch. Stu Finnigan is the Gospel Doctrine instructor. He is a wonderful teacher. Also met Sister Henderson from Hundred, WV, who is a member of the Mannington Branch. I don't know if that Branch existed when we were in New Martinsville, She grew up and has lived in Hundred all her life. Amazing we never met her all the times we went to Fairmont for church activities.
Scott and Lori, Chris and Suzy all came to Dan and Misty's after church today for dinner and a birthday celebration for all of the September and October birthdays. It totaled 5 grandchildren and two adult birthdays, just including the three families who were present and Bonnie and I. We took several pictures and will post some later this week once we get home. We all left Dan and Misty's about 7:45. We got to Chris' at 9:15. Scott and Lori are enroute to Richmond, Virginia. They need to be home tomorrow night.
That's about it for now. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Scott and Lori, Chris and Suzy all came to Dan and Misty's after church today for dinner and a birthday celebration for all of the September and October birthdays. It totaled 5 grandchildren and two adult birthdays, just including the three families who were present and Bonnie and I. We took several pictures and will post some later this week once we get home. We all left Dan and Misty's about 7:45. We got to Chris' at 9:15. Scott and Lori are enroute to Richmond, Virginia. They need to be home tomorrow night.
That's about it for now. Hope you had a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Saturday 24 September 2016
September 24, 2016
Bob: I helped Dan transplant a couple trees this morning. We moved a peach tree and a fig tree. I dug the holes and planted them after he dug them up. Wasn't too bad, but the ground was pretty hard. After the holes were about 4 inches deep they got easier to dig. I'm not sure the holes were big enough in diameter. I know they were deep enough because I had to fill them in some before putting the trees in them.
We went to the BYU-WVU football game. It went down to the last minute, but BYU threw another interception and WVU ran out the clock. Disappointing, but losing according to the script they have been writing. They have had 1 point and a couple of 3 point losses. They are close, but not winning any prizes.
It's time to bed down. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We've had a fun day today, even though BYU lost the game. This morning I went with Katie to buy a few things, including a cake on which we had the bakery write: "Go Cougars!" We'll have it for dessert tomorrow, along with birthday cupcakes for all the grandchildren with birthdays in September and October. There are five, plus Scott Crossley and myself. I got to help watch Lucas at the game. What a sweet, cute little guy he is! I'm so thankful I got to know him a little bit this week-end.
Tonight Misty,Katie, Sarah and I enjoyed listening to the Women's Conference Broadcast.
Tomorrow, the Crossley's will be here about 11, in time for a small brunch and then church with us and Ellis'. Chris and family will arrive about 4:30 for dinner after church. They can't come to church with us because Chris has to teach the YM in his ward tomorrow. I hope to have some pictures of all of us to put on the blog.
May we all have a Happy Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We went to the BYU-WVU football game. It went down to the last minute, but BYU threw another interception and WVU ran out the clock. Disappointing, but losing according to the script they have been writing. They have had 1 point and a couple of 3 point losses. They are close, but not winning any prizes.
It's time to bed down. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We've had a fun day today, even though BYU lost the game. This morning I went with Katie to buy a few things, including a cake on which we had the bakery write: "Go Cougars!" We'll have it for dessert tomorrow, along with birthday cupcakes for all the grandchildren with birthdays in September and October. There are five, plus Scott Crossley and myself. I got to help watch Lucas at the game. What a sweet, cute little guy he is! I'm so thankful I got to know him a little bit this week-end.
Tonight Misty,Katie, Sarah and I enjoyed listening to the Women's Conference Broadcast.
Tomorrow, the Crossley's will be here about 11, in time for a small brunch and then church with us and Ellis'. Chris and family will arrive about 4:30 for dinner after church. They can't come to church with us because Chris has to teach the YM in his ward tomorrow. I hope to have some pictures of all of us to put on the blog.
May we all have a Happy Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 23 September 2016
September 23, 2016
Bob and Bonnie: Left Chris and Suzy's just before 9 this morning. It took just a little over 90 minutes to get to Misty's. Stayed there for just a little while and we left to meet Lori and her family at Cafe Rio for lunch. Afterwards we went to a nature museum so the kids could get rid of some pent up energy. Bonnie and I left them about 3 to go to Walmart to pick up an order. It took almost an hour to get there. When we left Walmart there was more traffic to deal with. Dan said welcome to NCR, the National Capital Region. I told him I thought it stood for 'normally congested roadways'! After some pizza we went to watch Ammon and his football team play their local rival. His team won 6 - 0. The other team was driving near the end of the game, but they held them on 4th down to seal the win.
We are going to bed now so we can get up and do some work in the morning and then head down to the WVU-BYU game tomorrow afternoon. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
We are going to bed now so we can get up and do some work in the morning and then head down to the WVU-BYU game tomorrow afternoon. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob, Mom/Bonnie
Crossley's in their BYU blue
Lucas
Thursday 22 September 2016
September 22, 2016
Bob and Bonnie: We left Comfort Inn at 9:00 this morning. So much for an early start. One of the last to leave the motel as the parking lot was almost completely empty. We were in route to Misty's when Bonnie discovered how near we would be to Boiling Springs, Chris and Suzy's home. So adjustments were made on the fly and we arrived at Chris and Suzy's about 3:30 I believe. Their house is beautiful and bordered on 2 sides by acres of soybeans. Across the highway from them are acres of corn. They have one neighbor beside them. Very countrified setting.
We saw a lot of beautiful country travelling today. Pennsylvania has to be one of the most beautiful states in the Union. I'll try and put a couple pictures from a rest stop below.
Suzy fixed 'green' rice with black beans for supper. Very good with avocado and ranch dressing on it stuffed into a tortilla shell. Then we drove to Leo's Ice Cream in Carlilse for dessert. Now it is time to relax and wait for Chris to get home. He'll be surprised for sure. He knew we stopped, but doesn't know we are staying. And we got him a pint of his favorite ice cream.
Time to go for tonight. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Mom/Bonnie
We saw a lot of beautiful country travelling today. Pennsylvania has to be one of the most beautiful states in the Union. I'll try and put a couple pictures from a rest stop below.
Suzy fixed 'green' rice with black beans for supper. Very good with avocado and ranch dressing on it stuffed into a tortilla shell. Then we drove to Leo's Ice Cream in Carlilse for dessert. Now it is time to relax and wait for Chris to get home. He'll be surprised for sure. He knew we stopped, but doesn't know we are staying. And we got him a pint of his favorite ice cream.
Time to go for tonight. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Mom/Bonnie
From the rest stop #1
This says it all!!
From the reststop #2
Rest stop #3 (below the lookout)
Wednesday 21 September 2016
September 21, 2016
Bob: We left Haileybury just before noon. Arrived at the Fort Erie just before 8:00. However, we had a stop for gas and a stop to eat something. I know it took us just shy of 5 hours driving time to reach the 410 Exit off the 407 freeway in Brampton. I believe it was about 6 1/2 hours driving time today. Expect the same tomorrow. I called Target in Niagara Falls, NY and they have an order of Niacin for me. I'll try to call them tomorrow and see if I can get it on Monday. It is about 60 minutes out of our way from where we are staying.
Weather was great today. I think the temperatures got into the 80s here. Hoping the weekend stays the same.
Bonnie took the picture below. I was asking the mountie for directions, but he wouldn't answer me. I guess he doesn't like Americans!!
Have a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm excited to see children and grand-children soon, especially my new grandbaby Lucas!! We hope to have a smooth driving day tomorrow. Today there were some road work delays. Hopefully, we'll be to Misty's by about dinner-time.
I hope all is well with everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Weather was great today. I think the temperatures got into the 80s here. Hoping the weekend stays the same.
Bonnie took the picture below. I was asking the mountie for directions, but he wouldn't answer me. I guess he doesn't like Americans!!
Have a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm excited to see children and grand-children soon, especially my new grandbaby Lucas!! We hope to have a smooth driving day tomorrow. Today there were some road work delays. Hopefully, we'll be to Misty's by about dinner-time.
I hope all is well with everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Canadian Mountie
Tuesday 20 September 2016
September 20, 2016
Bob: Spent most of the day getting ready for the Activity Night and studying the lesson material cross references. Tried to contact one of the less-active sisters, but her phone wouldn't take messages. Bonnie took some of the left over soup from last night to Sister Craig who is in the hospital.
Had a good Activity Night. There were 11 people there. We were a little late getting started, but it was a fun night just being together and laughing.
The weather is still very pleasant here. In the 70s today and the same for tomorrow. May wash the car before we leave. Don't know if I can get up in time for swimming.
Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Most of my day was spent doing lots of wash and cleaning the apartment and ironing. I also made cookies for Activity Night. It was nice to relax and go to it. Very fun, indeed! Tomorrow we will try to leave by 1:00. There will be all the packing to do and some little errands in the morning. Then, it is on our way to the States. We will be staying in Canada tomorrow night near the border.
Have a good night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Had a good Activity Night. There were 11 people there. We were a little late getting started, but it was a fun night just being together and laughing.
The weather is still very pleasant here. In the 70s today and the same for tomorrow. May wash the car before we leave. Don't know if I can get up in time for swimming.
Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Most of my day was spent doing lots of wash and cleaning the apartment and ironing. I also made cookies for Activity Night. It was nice to relax and go to it. Very fun, indeed! Tomorrow we will try to leave by 1:00. There will be all the packing to do and some little errands in the morning. Then, it is on our way to the States. We will be staying in Canada tomorrow night near the border.
Have a good night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 19 September 2016
September 19, 2016
Bob: Started the day with swimming again. I haven't been able to swim since September 7th because of our trip to Brampton The pool was closed last week. Did 19 laps today and was very tired. After I got back home and ate I took a short nap to revive!!
We went to see Donna at the hospital this afternoon. Then Bonnie prepared a meal for the Elders and David Ternedian who rents an apartment on the south side of the Catholic Church (we are on the north side). After dinner at 7:00 we went with the Elders to visit Norm and Margaret Villneff. He is a hard one to convince of anything. We haven't gotten him to read the Book of Mormon yet so that is a problem. I can say, though, that he is not afraid of hard work. He is installing a drainage line across his property and he is doing most of it by hand. It is a massive project.
Then Bonnie and I went to visit Conrad Corville at 8:30. He is going to begin reading the Book of Mormon again. I think we need to teach him some more about the atonement so he can eventually feel worthy once he comes back. We will see.
Well it's almost 11:30. Time to get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's late and we've had a busy afternoon and evening. Tomorrow, since some visiting teaching won't be happening as planned, I will start to get ready for our trip to the States. We will leave Wednesday about 1:00. I'm getting very excited! Tomorrow, we may be able to see Roxanne, and there will be an Activity Night that we need to prepare for. It will be a good day.
May all of you have had a good day today and a better one tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We went to see Donna at the hospital this afternoon. Then Bonnie prepared a meal for the Elders and David Ternedian who rents an apartment on the south side of the Catholic Church (we are on the north side). After dinner at 7:00 we went with the Elders to visit Norm and Margaret Villneff. He is a hard one to convince of anything. We haven't gotten him to read the Book of Mormon yet so that is a problem. I can say, though, that he is not afraid of hard work. He is installing a drainage line across his property and he is doing most of it by hand. It is a massive project.
Then Bonnie and I went to visit Conrad Corville at 8:30. He is going to begin reading the Book of Mormon again. I think we need to teach him some more about the atonement so he can eventually feel worthy once he comes back. We will see.
Well it's almost 11:30. Time to get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It's late and we've had a busy afternoon and evening. Tomorrow, since some visiting teaching won't be happening as planned, I will start to get ready for our trip to the States. We will leave Wednesday about 1:00. I'm getting very excited! Tomorrow, we may be able to see Roxanne, and there will be an Activity Night that we need to prepare for. It will be a good day.
May all of you have had a good day today and a better one tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Sunday 18 September 2016
September 18, 2016
Bob: We made it to Sudbury and back without incident. The weekend was 'spiritually fulfilling'. The instruction and talks were all very good. The highlight of the weekend, however, was the video presentation of Elder Ballard's address to the Missionaries. We were not able to attend the original meeting because of the travel time. The entire meeting was recorded and President and Sister Shields showed it to us Saturday afternoon. We missed the other training sessions for Relief Society and Elders Quorum, but it was worth it. Below is a picture of most of the members from Temiskaming Branch that were at the Conference. The sister in the front with the blue blouse got her temple recommend this weekend after over 20 years of inactivity. This past spring an Elder challenged her to read the Book of Mormon. She is doing very well now.
Elder Ballard told of a Senior Missionary couple that came to the Toronto Mission in 1975. She told Elder Ballard she was scared to death and didn't know what to say to people. He assured her that if she would just say 'she and her husband had come over 2000 miles to share a message about Jesus Christ with you' that everything would be okay. So off they went in the dead of winter to Kirkland Lake. Upon arriving they had to get groceries. While the husband put things in the car she introduced herself to the store clerk and repeated what then President Ballard had told her. She walked out with their first of many appointments. They were responsible for 18 baptisms by the time they went home. I believe Elder Ballard was trying to tell us how easy it is. Bonnie and I will move forward with new enthusiasm and purpose!!
We hope your weekend was very rewarding as ours was. We send our love to all. Good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It was a wonderful two days. And, when we were with the missionaries, the Shields brought sandwich fixings, chips, fruit and donuts for lunch. Then, just before the 6:00 meeting, the stake served dinner to everyone there! I really enjoyed it--fresh corn, salad, pulled pork sandwiches and ice cream for dessert. Then, Bob wanted to go out for dessert after the evening meeting was over. Crazy man! We went to Perkins with three other people. (Bob got a piece of pie; all others got much more)
Sunday was also great, especially after we were done with our testimonies/talks! The Shields gave talks as well as the McMichael's who are are the president and matron of the temple. The Stake President's talk was wonderful. One thing he said may give our readers an idea about how big the boundaries of our Stake are. It's geographically bigger than Utah, Idaho and Nevada put together! President Shield's talk was about the issue of being small in number. He applied several war chapters in Alma to our stake, teaching us how to become strong, even though we are small units of the church.
I hope your Sabbath was also a wonderful experience for all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Elder Ballard told of a Senior Missionary couple that came to the Toronto Mission in 1975. She told Elder Ballard she was scared to death and didn't know what to say to people. He assured her that if she would just say 'she and her husband had come over 2000 miles to share a message about Jesus Christ with you' that everything would be okay. So off they went in the dead of winter to Kirkland Lake. Upon arriving they had to get groceries. While the husband put things in the car she introduced herself to the store clerk and repeated what then President Ballard had told her. She walked out with their first of many appointments. They were responsible for 18 baptisms by the time they went home. I believe Elder Ballard was trying to tell us how easy it is. Bonnie and I will move forward with new enthusiasm and purpose!!
We hope your weekend was very rewarding as ours was. We send our love to all. Good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It was a wonderful two days. And, when we were with the missionaries, the Shields brought sandwich fixings, chips, fruit and donuts for lunch. Then, just before the 6:00 meeting, the stake served dinner to everyone there! I really enjoyed it--fresh corn, salad, pulled pork sandwiches and ice cream for dessert. Then, Bob wanted to go out for dessert after the evening meeting was over. Crazy man! We went to Perkins with three other people. (Bob got a piece of pie; all others got much more)
Sunday was also great, especially after we were done with our testimonies/talks! The Shields gave talks as well as the McMichael's who are are the president and matron of the temple. The Stake President's talk was wonderful. One thing he said may give our readers an idea about how big the boundaries of our Stake are. It's geographically bigger than Utah, Idaho and Nevada put together! President Shield's talk was about the issue of being small in number. He applied several war chapters in Alma to our stake, teaching us how to become strong, even though we are small units of the church.
I hope your Sabbath was also a wonderful experience for all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Branch Members at Stake Conference - Sept.18th
A Famous Native of Haileybury
Friday 16 September 2016
September 16, 2016
Bob: Started off the day with a brisk walk to the church and back. I was gone for an hour and seven minutes. I know I walked for over 4 miles but I'm not sure how much. It was a cool morning, but I had a good sweat up when I finished. Glad Bonnie was washing clothes this morning.
We went to Kirkland Lake today. We had to finish up our home teaching route. We visited the Cushman's in Englehart, John Korhonen, a potential investigator in KL, Krystyna K, Cindy M, Sandra S. (who wasn't home), and Michael D all of KL. Then we went to Elk Lake and visited the Jakob's. I helped President Jakob fix the clothesline before we gave them the lesson.
We left this morning about 10:15 and got home a little before 8:00. It has been a tiring day. Tomorrow morning we will be leaving at 9:00 for Sudbury, which is about 2 hours and 40 minutes away. President Shields is having a meeting with the missionaries and showing the Elder Ballard DVD at noon.
We won't have internet access tomorrow tonight so there won't be a blog tomorrow. Will do the blog on Sunday. Have a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Bob has summed up our day. We had some interesting visits. This evening I have been trying to prepare for our Stake Conference tomorrow and Sunday. Because I have been given the "assignment" to be a counselor in R.S., I should go to the Leadership Training at 1:30 tomorrow. The problem is we may not be done with the Elder Ballard DVD. It will be interesting to see how things work out. In preparation for the training session I am supposed to read part of Handbook 2. That will have to happen on the way to Sudbury. Then we also need to be prepared to bear our testimonies Sunday morning. We are to talk about why we chose to go on a mission and some of the blessings we have received. I'll be glad when it is over!
I hope everyone will have a wonderful week-end!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We went to Kirkland Lake today. We had to finish up our home teaching route. We visited the Cushman's in Englehart, John Korhonen, a potential investigator in KL, Krystyna K, Cindy M, Sandra S. (who wasn't home), and Michael D all of KL. Then we went to Elk Lake and visited the Jakob's. I helped President Jakob fix the clothesline before we gave them the lesson.
We left this morning about 10:15 and got home a little before 8:00. It has been a tiring day. Tomorrow morning we will be leaving at 9:00 for Sudbury, which is about 2 hours and 40 minutes away. President Shields is having a meeting with the missionaries and showing the Elder Ballard DVD at noon.
We won't have internet access tomorrow tonight so there won't be a blog tomorrow. Will do the blog on Sunday. Have a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Bob has summed up our day. We had some interesting visits. This evening I have been trying to prepare for our Stake Conference tomorrow and Sunday. Because I have been given the "assignment" to be a counselor in R.S., I should go to the Leadership Training at 1:30 tomorrow. The problem is we may not be done with the Elder Ballard DVD. It will be interesting to see how things work out. In preparation for the training session I am supposed to read part of Handbook 2. That will have to happen on the way to Sudbury. Then we also need to be prepared to bear our testimonies Sunday morning. We are to talk about why we chose to go on a mission and some of the blessings we have received. I'll be glad when it is over!
I hope everyone will have a wonderful week-end!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Thursday 15 September 2016
September 15, 2016
Bonnie: We have been treated very well by members of the Branch today! We were taken to lunch by the Branch President's wife to Wendy's (Bob choice, of course). Then we went to dinner at Trudy and Jack's. She made a delicious stew with pork that had been cooked all day, mashed potatoes, cole slaw and homemade rolls. And, of course, her famous pie for dessert. We did do some missionary work in between, meeting a less-active brother at the hospital. And after dinner we went to help the first counselor and his non-member wife wife work on their remodeling project. I got to scrub paint off of the bathroom floor and Bob got to scrape paint off of the hallway floor along the edges where it had seeped under the tape. I am tired out tonight, although I can't understand why.
Tomorrow we will spend most of the day up north, in Kirkland Lake, Englehart and Elk Lake. It will be a long day, I think.
I hope all of you have had a fulfilling, wonderful day!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Started today with a 45 minute walk. The air was brisk and cool this morning, but I didn't go far before I had to take my sweatshirt off. It is really nice in the morning because the air is so clear and clean.
Next on the agenda was a PPI with Brother Wiwchar. It took quite a long time, but proved successful I believe.
Then we had lunch at Wendy's (my favorite). Met a non-member, Roy Dittman, husband of the Branch President's less-active sister. He was with Tom Cambridge, the 1st Counselor in the Branch Presidency. They are partners in a local furniture-making business. Roy asked Tom if Bonnie and I were serving because we joined the church in our later years and had to make up time!! Tom assured Roy that we were doing this because we want to be here. We also met Cindy Caron, another less-active, in Wendy's. We got her husband's name and their marriage date so we could update the records at the Branch. Bonnie got to talk with her for a minute.
We later went to Jack and Trudy's for a very good home cooked meal. I hope Trudy can teach us how she makes rolls!! They were huge and delicious. Then we went to help Tom and Susan Cambridge at their house. Bonnie mentioned our chores there.
Below is the picture I promised from last night. Don't know exactly what Norm is going to do with this culvert, but I do know he is not afraid of hard work. We'll go by next week and see what he has done.
I sent our income tax papers to our tax accountant today. I hope I sent him everything because I accidentally knocked the scanner/printer off of a chair and onto the floor this evening. I figure it is toast.
I hope you have had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tomorrow we will spend most of the day up north, in Kirkland Lake, Englehart and Elk Lake. It will be a long day, I think.
I hope all of you have had a fulfilling, wonderful day!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Started today with a 45 minute walk. The air was brisk and cool this morning, but I didn't go far before I had to take my sweatshirt off. It is really nice in the morning because the air is so clear and clean.
Next on the agenda was a PPI with Brother Wiwchar. It took quite a long time, but proved successful I believe.
Then we had lunch at Wendy's (my favorite). Met a non-member, Roy Dittman, husband of the Branch President's less-active sister. He was with Tom Cambridge, the 1st Counselor in the Branch Presidency. They are partners in a local furniture-making business. Roy asked Tom if Bonnie and I were serving because we joined the church in our later years and had to make up time!! Tom assured Roy that we were doing this because we want to be here. We also met Cindy Caron, another less-active, in Wendy's. We got her husband's name and their marriage date so we could update the records at the Branch. Bonnie got to talk with her for a minute.
We later went to Jack and Trudy's for a very good home cooked meal. I hope Trudy can teach us how she makes rolls!! They were huge and delicious. Then we went to help Tom and Susan Cambridge at their house. Bonnie mentioned our chores there.
Below is the picture I promised from last night. Don't know exactly what Norm is going to do with this culvert, but I do know he is not afraid of hard work. We'll go by next week and see what he has done.
I sent our income tax papers to our tax accountant today. I hope I sent him everything because I accidentally knocked the scanner/printer off of a chair and onto the floor this evening. I figure it is toast.
I hope you have had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Villneff's culvert
Wednesday 14 September 2016
September 14, 2016
Bonnie: Our friend Roxanne wasn't feeling well today and she wanted a blessing. So, Bob and I looked for the Elders, and luckily found them at the church. I'm so glad she met them and that they were able to help Bob do this for her. After dinner, we visited our friends, the Villeneuf's. Brother Villeneuf wasn't there at first so we talked to Sister Villeneuf and helped her set a goal to read some chapters in the Book of Mormon. That makes me so happy!! Shortly after we finished with her, Brother Villeneuf came home, with a huge culvert on the back of a truck and several people to help him move it. As you can see, it is huge! We will try to see them again next Wednesday night, hopefully together. We ended the night by stopping by to see if we could help the counselor in the Branch Presidency and his wife with a remodeling project. We might stop by tomorrow night, depending on when we get home from dinner at Trudy and Jack's. It will make for a good day tomorrow if we can help them.
I am so happy to be helping the members of our Branch. They are all wonderful people!
Good night, all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: My wife is cold and the heater/cooler is still set to COOL. I raised the temperature up and the blower kicks on, but the air is cool. However, the room temperature did raise 2 degrees. I'm trying to get it up 2 more, but it doesn't seem to be raising. I think I'm just running the blower!!
I can't get my phone to send the picture of the culvert. It says it went, but it's not showing up. I'll add it tomorrow night if I ever get it. It's a pretty good size culvert. I asked Norm if he was expecting a flood!!
Hope your day has gone well. I'm trying to get my tax information together to send to Ross tomorrow as well as my estimated tax payment. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I am so happy to be helping the members of our Branch. They are all wonderful people!
Good night, all!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: My wife is cold and the heater/cooler is still set to COOL. I raised the temperature up and the blower kicks on, but the air is cool. However, the room temperature did raise 2 degrees. I'm trying to get it up 2 more, but it doesn't seem to be raising. I think I'm just running the blower!!
I can't get my phone to send the picture of the culvert. It says it went, but it's not showing up. I'll add it tomorrow night if I ever get it. It's a pretty good size culvert. I asked Norm if he was expecting a flood!!
Hope your day has gone well. I'm trying to get my tax information together to send to Ross tomorrow as well as my estimated tax payment. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tuesday 13 September 2016
September 13, 2016
Bonnie: It's almost 10:00 and we are back from our Activity Night. We had two new members of the Branch there which was nice. I'm glad I brought some cookies or we would not have had much for treats. It went well. Today, we also saw two other members who are very less-active and talked for quite awhile. Bob also called the OPP and he is finally cleared for his police-check. That's a relief. Now we can officially go together to deliver the meals on wheels.
Tomorrow should be a good day with two other important visits planned.
Have a great day tomorrow, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We had good visits today with Sister Buffam and her grandmother, Sister Huywan. Sister Huywan is 95 and in a nursing home. She has been a faithful member for many years. Sister Buffam joined the church when she was 12, but drifted away at age 16 when she and Derrick, her husband, started dating. She now has 2 children who are on their own. We'll be going to her home to visit with her and Derrick in the near future.
Our next visit was with Brother Evans, who is the brother of Sister Buffam. He too drifted away from church, but at a younger age. He is has been disabled for years, but told us today he thought he would like to find some way to work again. He can't lift anything off the floor so he cannot go back to being an electrician. He can drive, but could not unload a truck. We'll see what he can find.
The Activity Night was fine. Sister Martin had the spiritual thought tonight. She asked, "What would be the first thing you would do if you had all the money you wanted?" What do you think about that?
Well it's time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tomorrow should be a good day with two other important visits planned.
Have a great day tomorrow, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We had good visits today with Sister Buffam and her grandmother, Sister Huywan. Sister Huywan is 95 and in a nursing home. She has been a faithful member for many years. Sister Buffam joined the church when she was 12, but drifted away at age 16 when she and Derrick, her husband, started dating. She now has 2 children who are on their own. We'll be going to her home to visit with her and Derrick in the near future.
Our next visit was with Brother Evans, who is the brother of Sister Buffam. He too drifted away from church, but at a younger age. He is has been disabled for years, but told us today he thought he would like to find some way to work again. He can't lift anything off the floor so he cannot go back to being an electrician. He can drive, but could not unload a truck. We'll see what he can find.
The Activity Night was fine. Sister Martin had the spiritual thought tonight. She asked, "What would be the first thing you would do if you had all the money you wanted?" What do you think about that?
Well it's time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 12 September 2016
September 12, 2016
Bonnie: Several of the people we wanted to see today weren't home. We did go back to see our friend Conrad, though, and had a good conversation with him. My big project for tomorrow is to come up with our spiritual thought for our Activity Night which will be tomorrow at 7:00. We hope to have a good turnout for it.
Good night to all,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We had a very good, but short visit with Conrad. He has been in touch with Sister Smith, the missionary that taught him. I feel he is thinking about the church, but after 20 years following about 7 days of activity as a member it is very hard. We need to give him as much encouragement as possible.
One of the people not home today will be available tomorrow at 2:00, so we will see her then. We also missed her brother today, but we can try him again tomorrow also.
Bonnie fixed cheeseburgers for dinner. For toppings she had garden-fresh tomatoes, bacon and avocado! Very sumptuous!!
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Good night to all,
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We had a very good, but short visit with Conrad. He has been in touch with Sister Smith, the missionary that taught him. I feel he is thinking about the church, but after 20 years following about 7 days of activity as a member it is very hard. We need to give him as much encouragement as possible.
One of the people not home today will be available tomorrow at 2:00, so we will see her then. We also missed her brother today, but we can try him again tomorrow also.
Bonnie fixed cheeseburgers for dinner. For toppings she had garden-fresh tomatoes, bacon and avocado! Very sumptuous!!
Better get to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Sunday 11 September 2016
September 11, 2016
Bonnie: It's been a long day, but a good one. Church was excellent with our two missionaries speaking. One talk was on the attributes of Christ and the other one on the atonement. One challenge for me was that the RS President was sick today, and she was supposed to teach. So, I ended up teaching the lesson! I couldn't prepare for it during Sunday School because we attended the Gospel Principles class with an investigator. So, it was not a very good lesson, I'm afraid. We had a covered dish dinner after church and after that a meeting with the Elders in our Branch and the Branch missionary couple. We went over all of the less-actives in the Branch and didn't get done until 6:00. I can't believe it took us so long. We need to come up with a Branch Missionary Plan that has been approved by the Branch Council, among other things. All in all, it has been a very good day. I have been in contact with two of my children and some grandchildren so that makes it an extra good day for me.
I hope everyone has had an extra good day, as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has summed up the day very well. It took a long time to go over the list of less-actives because we have seen a lot of them, and Brother & Sister Cambridge know the history of most of them. Anyway, we divided them up into 4 groups (1 group of nowhere to be found) and will report back to each other in a couple weeks. I'm very interested in seeing the Branch Missionary Plan and finding out how it will work. It appears to me that we need to do more contacting with a spiritual message. Then we can find out who is really not interested. Time will tell.
Well it's time for bed. Hope your weekend was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I hope everyone has had an extra good day, as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie has summed up the day very well. It took a long time to go over the list of less-actives because we have seen a lot of them, and Brother & Sister Cambridge know the history of most of them. Anyway, we divided them up into 4 groups (1 group of nowhere to be found) and will report back to each other in a couple weeks. I'm very interested in seeing the Branch Missionary Plan and finding out how it will work. It appears to me that we need to do more contacting with a spiritual message. Then we can find out who is really not interested. Time will tell.
Well it's time for bed. Hope your weekend was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Saturday 10 September 2016
September 10, 2016
Bonnie: We got home from Brampton about 4:00 today. We picked up a hitch-hiker at North Bay who needed a ride to a home just north of Cobalt. He was a young man who looked like he needed some help. I'll let Bob tell you about that.
We went to dinner with several senior couples Thursday night. We love doing that, of course. The meetings with Elder Arnold were fantastic. He spoke to the entire mission in two conferences, one Thursday and one Friday. It was just what we needed. He gave us some specific guidelines, and helped President Shields put into practice some changes that are excellent. One time he looked into the eyes of a sister missionary, and then shared Alma 7:11-13 about the atonement. She started to cry. I guess it was something she really needed to hear. He kept reassuring us that what he was saying was from the Lord and specifically for our mission. Lunch was served and we finished up about 3:30. We then headed over to a clinic to see if Bob could get an A1C test. What a zoo! By the time the insurance sent in the approval to the clinic, there were no staff nurses there to do the test. We spent about 2 hours just waiting. So, then we went to Burrito Boys for nachos, (not a very good idea in Bob's opinion) and then went to the temple. We had a nice surprise there. One of the single sisters from Kirkland Lake was there for the same session. She is one of the stalwart members of our Branch. It was very special to go through the session with her. We got back to the Mission Home about 10:00, just when the Shields were returning from a meeting they had. We left this morning about 9:00. I'm tired for sure, but this trip was quite worth it!
Tomorrow we don't need to pick up the Cushman's because Karol has been in the hospital! Apparently she had an anxiety attack, that at first was thought to be a heart attack. It was the night before we left to go south, so we couldn't be there for her. I'm so glad that the Branch stepped up to the plate. She is still recuperating, and is doing better.
May we enjoy our Sabbath Day tomorrow, and feel the love of the Lord!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It's 300 miles to Brampton from here, so I am tired of driving. The young man we picked up didn't want to talk too much. His names was Brandon. He is about 25 and we believe he has some emotional/mental issues. He spoke very slowly and seemed to be trying to make sure he said the correct thing. We took him to Granny's for a burger once we got here. And Bonnie gave him a Book of Mormon, 'the Mormon Bible', as he called it. Hopefully it may do some good.
Tried to go for a walk after I got home, but it started raining. Thankfully I took an umbrella with me, but my pants were damp by the time I got back. My shoes and other things are drying in front of the fan as we speak.
I'm signing off for the night. Hope you have had a good weekend so far. Our trip was fantastic and we're anxious to try out some of the things we learned. President Shields asked me to go to Val d'Or and see if I could find an apartment for the Elders. Saw lots of "For Rent" signs when I was in Val d'Or, but there isn't anything on-line. We will go there next week to look.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We went to dinner with several senior couples Thursday night. We love doing that, of course. The meetings with Elder Arnold were fantastic. He spoke to the entire mission in two conferences, one Thursday and one Friday. It was just what we needed. He gave us some specific guidelines, and helped President Shields put into practice some changes that are excellent. One time he looked into the eyes of a sister missionary, and then shared Alma 7:11-13 about the atonement. She started to cry. I guess it was something she really needed to hear. He kept reassuring us that what he was saying was from the Lord and specifically for our mission. Lunch was served and we finished up about 3:30. We then headed over to a clinic to see if Bob could get an A1C test. What a zoo! By the time the insurance sent in the approval to the clinic, there were no staff nurses there to do the test. We spent about 2 hours just waiting. So, then we went to Burrito Boys for nachos, (not a very good idea in Bob's opinion) and then went to the temple. We had a nice surprise there. One of the single sisters from Kirkland Lake was there for the same session. She is one of the stalwart members of our Branch. It was very special to go through the session with her. We got back to the Mission Home about 10:00, just when the Shields were returning from a meeting they had. We left this morning about 9:00. I'm tired for sure, but this trip was quite worth it!
Tomorrow we don't need to pick up the Cushman's because Karol has been in the hospital! Apparently she had an anxiety attack, that at first was thought to be a heart attack. It was the night before we left to go south, so we couldn't be there for her. I'm so glad that the Branch stepped up to the plate. She is still recuperating, and is doing better.
May we enjoy our Sabbath Day tomorrow, and feel the love of the Lord!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: It's 300 miles to Brampton from here, so I am tired of driving. The young man we picked up didn't want to talk too much. His names was Brandon. He is about 25 and we believe he has some emotional/mental issues. He spoke very slowly and seemed to be trying to make sure he said the correct thing. We took him to Granny's for a burger once we got here. And Bonnie gave him a Book of Mormon, 'the Mormon Bible', as he called it. Hopefully it may do some good.
Tried to go for a walk after I got home, but it started raining. Thankfully I took an umbrella with me, but my pants were damp by the time I got back. My shoes and other things are drying in front of the fan as we speak.
I'm signing off for the night. Hope you have had a good weekend so far. Our trip was fantastic and we're anxious to try out some of the things we learned. President Shields asked me to go to Val d'Or and see if I could find an apartment for the Elders. Saw lots of "For Rent" signs when I was in Val d'Or, but there isn't anything on-line. We will go there next week to look.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Wednesday 7 September 2016
September 7, 2016
Bob: Below are two pictures I forgot to post last night. One time in Brampton, a Brother Lawrence Fuller mentioned he had a 'cottage' up north. This is it. He built it so that all 12 of his children and all of the grandchildren could come at one time. The other picture is the entrance gate to it. You can't make it out from the first picture, but the orange thing under the balcony is a huge tractor with a snow blower on it. I was told the foundation alone cost him $120,000. This place is first class with both hydro and running water. The lake is right behind his cottage. The Fullers are all very active church members and have many friends and family come as guests to their cottage. They are generous and very kind. Lawrence, the Patriarch, was an Assistant to the Twelve. In fact, he was Boyd K. Packer's assistant. He has many stories to share about Brother Packer. I was in only one class that Brother Fuller taught (he was the High Priest Group Leader), but he had a story about Elder Packer. It would be fun to stay at the cottage and fish the lake it is on. It's about 2 miles off the highway and I don't think there is an easy access to the lake. Thus the lake isn't fished much.
Bonnie has summed up the day's activities, so I am closing for now. Not sure when we will be able to update the blog. Until then, God bless everyone. My love to each of you and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today we took Roxanne shopping. It went well. I did a bit of shopping, too, because of our trip south tomorrow. We will be at the Mission Home tomorrow and Friday night to be part of the Zone Conference with Elder Arnold and his wife. We will be eating out with some of the other senior couples tomorrow night, and that will be great fun. We would normally go home right after the conference but Friday night traffic going north will be congested and slow. That means an early departure Saturday morning. We hope to take in a visit to the temple Friday night as well.
Tonight we had our Activity Night. It was quite enjoyable, although very small in numbers. We start next week having it on Tuesday night instead, which will allow for more people to come. We have great hopes that this will really take off. I think it will be a wonderful thing for the Branch.
May tomorrow bring us all blessings!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bonnie has summed up the day's activities, so I am closing for now. Not sure when we will be able to update the blog. Until then, God bless everyone. My love to each of you and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today we took Roxanne shopping. It went well. I did a bit of shopping, too, because of our trip south tomorrow. We will be at the Mission Home tomorrow and Friday night to be part of the Zone Conference with Elder Arnold and his wife. We will be eating out with some of the other senior couples tomorrow night, and that will be great fun. We would normally go home right after the conference but Friday night traffic going north will be congested and slow. That means an early departure Saturday morning. We hope to take in a visit to the temple Friday night as well.
Tonight we had our Activity Night. It was quite enjoyable, although very small in numbers. We start next week having it on Tuesday night instead, which will allow for more people to come. We have great hopes that this will really take off. I think it will be a wonderful thing for the Branch.
May tomorrow bring us all blessings!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Fuller's northern cottage
Entrance to Fuller's cottage
Tuesday 6 September 2016
September 6, 2016
Bonnie: Today we had a long visit with a couple in Temagami, about 45 minutes south of where we live. He is the Branch mission leader but has seriously declining health. It's a beautiful place. Then, we stopped in to see another couple, the Benns, She is quite old but is working full-time at a consignment shop to help out a friend. Thankfully, the shop is just around the corner from where they live. I asked her non-member husband today if he believed in God. He waffled a bit, saying sometimes. I then told him that I believed in God and that God loves him. I don't know if that helped him feel anything or not but I hope so. After dinner, we stopped to find our friend Bonnie H. who volunteers at the hospital. She talked and talked, showing me her house and yard. She won't be able to come to our Activity Night tomorrow night because of another commitment. Oh, well. We keep trying.
We ended the night by watching more of the missionary broadcast we were asked to see in preparation for Elder Arnold. There is lots of great information to digest. Hopefully, we can put it to good use! We will be leaving Thursday so we can attend the Zone Conference Friday. I'm excited to hear what he has to say.
It's late now, and our bedtime, so I'll let Bob write a few words.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Set the clock last night and got up before 6 to go swimming. Problem was there is no swimming on Tuesday mornings!! I was about half way ready when I realized this was Tuesday. Went back to bed for about an hour. Felt good! After I got up I went for a 30 minute walk with Bonnie, and another 30 minutes by myself. I don't think I walked nearly as fast as Saturday and Monday.
Brother Benn is trying not to be a religious person. I sense, however, he feels the spirit occasionally. We will keep trying with him.
Tried to see two others tonight, but they did not answer.
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We ended the night by watching more of the missionary broadcast we were asked to see in preparation for Elder Arnold. There is lots of great information to digest. Hopefully, we can put it to good use! We will be leaving Thursday so we can attend the Zone Conference Friday. I'm excited to hear what he has to say.
It's late now, and our bedtime, so I'll let Bob write a few words.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Set the clock last night and got up before 6 to go swimming. Problem was there is no swimming on Tuesday mornings!! I was about half way ready when I realized this was Tuesday. Went back to bed for about an hour. Felt good! After I got up I went for a 30 minute walk with Bonnie, and another 30 minutes by myself. I don't think I walked nearly as fast as Saturday and Monday.
Brother Benn is trying not to be a religious person. I sense, however, he feels the spirit occasionally. We will keep trying with him.
Tried to see two others tonight, but they did not answer.
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 5 September 2016
September 5, 2016
Bob: Took a 4 mile walk this morning. Weather was very nice today.
We went to home-teach the Villneff's and visit Donna Craig in the hospital. When we finished Bonnie needed to start getting dinner ready for the Elders. And, Brad Sauve wanted me to go swimming with him at Bass Lake. He said I had to get in a lake swim while in Canada, and the chance of doing that was getting slimmer by the day. So off we went. The results are shown below. The lake has a sandy bottom and you can wade in it till you finally go under water. After that it was quite comfortable. In the picture I am kneeling on the bottom. We tried to stay in water that was not over our heads!!
Tonight Bonnie and I visited Ann Margetson and gave her the home teaching message. Met her renter Rob, who was taking the lessons at one time, but eventually shied away. We'll see if we can resume them with him.
Hope your Labor Day Holiday was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had the Elders over for dinner tonight. I had to do something with the blueberries, so I made another blueberry pie. No one seemed to mind even though it was the second time in a row. I may make some little blueberry muffins next.
We have been listening to the broadcast of a missionary conference given in January to all of the missionaries, world-wide, who were serving at that time. I really enjoyed Elder Andersen's comments about testifying of the Savior as often as we can - no matter who it is. We need to get better at that. We will listen to the rest of the conference tomorrow and Wednesday in preparation for Elder Arnold's visit at the end of this week.
I hope that everyone has enjoyed the long week-end.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We went to home-teach the Villneff's and visit Donna Craig in the hospital. When we finished Bonnie needed to start getting dinner ready for the Elders. And, Brad Sauve wanted me to go swimming with him at Bass Lake. He said I had to get in a lake swim while in Canada, and the chance of doing that was getting slimmer by the day. So off we went. The results are shown below. The lake has a sandy bottom and you can wade in it till you finally go under water. After that it was quite comfortable. In the picture I am kneeling on the bottom. We tried to stay in water that was not over our heads!!
Tonight Bonnie and I visited Ann Margetson and gave her the home teaching message. Met her renter Rob, who was taking the lessons at one time, but eventually shied away. We'll see if we can resume them with him.
Hope your Labor Day Holiday was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had the Elders over for dinner tonight. I had to do something with the blueberries, so I made another blueberry pie. No one seemed to mind even though it was the second time in a row. I may make some little blueberry muffins next.
We have been listening to the broadcast of a missionary conference given in January to all of the missionaries, world-wide, who were serving at that time. I really enjoyed Elder Andersen's comments about testifying of the Savior as often as we can - no matter who it is. We need to get better at that. We will listen to the rest of the conference tomorrow and Wednesday in preparation for Elder Arnold's visit at the end of this week.
I hope that everyone has enjoyed the long week-end.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bass Lake Swim with Brad Sauve
Sunday 4 September 2016
September 4, 2016
Bob: We enjoyed a nice Testimony Meeting today. We had a good group of 33, plus those who met in Rouyn. Don't know how many were there. After the meetings I stayed with the Branch Clerk, Warren Cambridge, while we tried to print some reports for our meeting with Elder Arnold this week. Bonnie spent the afternoon with Sister Cambridge at her house.
We got home between 5:30 - 6:00 and Bonnie prepared her birthday meal of tacos. Yummy!! There was blueberry cobbler for dessert, but I didn't think of getting candles for it.
I called all the home teaches and got their monthly reports. Bonnie and I talked a little about plans for the rest of the week. Watched another Murdoch Mystery and now it is time for bed. Hope everyone had a beautiful Sabbath. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Thanks for everyone's birthday wishes. I enjoyed talking to some of my grandchildren. And, President and Sister Shields called and sang happy birthday to me!
Today was also special because both Brother and Sister Cushman came to church, and Sister Cushman bore her testimony. It's been a good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We got home between 5:30 - 6:00 and Bonnie prepared her birthday meal of tacos. Yummy!! There was blueberry cobbler for dessert, but I didn't think of getting candles for it.
I called all the home teaches and got their monthly reports. Bonnie and I talked a little about plans for the rest of the week. Watched another Murdoch Mystery and now it is time for bed. Hope everyone had a beautiful Sabbath. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Thanks for everyone's birthday wishes. I enjoyed talking to some of my grandchildren. And, President and Sister Shields called and sang happy birthday to me!
Today was also special because both Brother and Sister Cushman came to church, and Sister Cushman bore her testimony. It's been a good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Saturday 3 September 2016
September 3, 2016
Bob: Walked this morning. The weather said it was 46 outside, but it was actually quite nice.
We got ready and went to Kirkland Lake. Got there at 12:00, had lunch with Sister Ng and then went to visit John. He sold a farm to Sister Ng a few years ago and they still keep in touch. He has a Book of Mormon, but he needs a large print. She said she would take one over to him. Not sure he wants to be taught right now.
Went to visit Angie, an Asian lady friend of Sister Ng. However, another old friend of Angie's showed up as we got there. We left for a while and went back. Once the friend found out we were going berry-picking she wanted to go. No one thought she would be able to do it as she walks with a walker and the ground is very rough. However, she surprised everyone and was the best picker of the group. She took a cane and did very well.
Better get to bed. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We came home with 14 cups of berries! There will be some wonderful desserts for the missionaries in the future, that's for sure, and berries on cereal and in pancakes, and on ice cream, and in muffins. The list is endless. I feel like I'm in blueberry heaven!
Sister Ng is one wonderful sister, so kind to everyone around her. She works full time and has a large garden on her property and loves genealogy. In fact, we will probably have some activities in Kirkland Lake doing genealogy. There are some exciting things going on here.
May we have a precious Sabbath Day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We got ready and went to Kirkland Lake. Got there at 12:00, had lunch with Sister Ng and then went to visit John. He sold a farm to Sister Ng a few years ago and they still keep in touch. He has a Book of Mormon, but he needs a large print. She said she would take one over to him. Not sure he wants to be taught right now.
Went to visit Angie, an Asian lady friend of Sister Ng. However, another old friend of Angie's showed up as we got there. We left for a while and went back. Once the friend found out we were going berry-picking she wanted to go. No one thought she would be able to do it as she walks with a walker and the ground is very rough. However, she surprised everyone and was the best picker of the group. She took a cane and did very well.
Better get to bed. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We came home with 14 cups of berries! There will be some wonderful desserts for the missionaries in the future, that's for sure, and berries on cereal and in pancakes, and on ice cream, and in muffins. The list is endless. I feel like I'm in blueberry heaven!
Sister Ng is one wonderful sister, so kind to everyone around her. She works full time and has a large garden on her property and loves genealogy. In fact, we will probably have some activities in Kirkland Lake doing genealogy. There are some exciting things going on here.
May we have a precious Sabbath Day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 2 September 2016
September 2, 2016
Bonnie: Because it's the Labor Day week-end, our visit with Villeneff's was cancelled. So, we planned to visit Fort Temiscamingue (the French spelling of Temiskaming) in Quebec. The problem was that our internet went off this morning and we were going to have to wait for a service tech to come between noon and 5:00. Fortunately, service came back on a little later. So, we spent the day in Quebec. It was quite interesting to learn about the history here. After looking inside the museum and watching a video, we took an outside walk to see quite interesting displays, including an "Enchanted Forest." and some grave sights. Hudson Bay Company was English and it's rival for the fur trade was North West Company, made up of French and Scottish men. These men were encouraged to marry the First Nation, or Algonquin women. The descendants of these cultures are called the Metis today. The Metis have quite a history in and of themselves. Anyway, it made for a fun day.
We did the grocery shopping on the way home, and I have been doing house-wifely stuff this evening such as preparing dinner and doing wash. I also did a series of my French lessons. Now, it's time to really relax!
I hope everyone has a relaxing week-end as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Fort Temiscamingue was a commercial fort, not a military fort. Circa 1679, Montreal merchants established a fort on the west side (Ontario) of Lake Timiskaming to compete with the English posts on the Hudson Bay, but it was destroyed by the Iroquois in 1688. In 1720, a new Fort Témiscamingue was founded by French merchants on the east side (Quebec) of The Narrows where the two shores of Lake Timiskaming come closer than 250 meters (820 ft) to each other. It eventually went through several owners and today is a National Historical Site in Canada.
In the spring, canoes from Montreal would arrive carrying goods to be traded for furs at this site and other sites further north. The canoes would then be loaded with furs and return to Montreal. These canoe trains would make 3 trips during the summer. The men that worked on the canoes were called Voyaguers. I have attached some pictures below.
Hope your day was as interesting as ours. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
A note from Wikipedia about the trees: Overall, over 80% of the total area of the park is a wooded area with approximately 20 different stands and a number of plants from the climatic forest type of the Laurentian maple stand and the Upper St. Lawrence forest sub-region. Of particular interest is a forest of cedar trunks so twisted that it was nicknamed the "Enchanted Forest".
We did the grocery shopping on the way home, and I have been doing house-wifely stuff this evening such as preparing dinner and doing wash. I also did a series of my French lessons. Now, it's time to really relax!
I hope everyone has a relaxing week-end as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Fort Temiscamingue was a commercial fort, not a military fort. Circa 1679, Montreal merchants established a fort on the west side (Ontario) of Lake Timiskaming to compete with the English posts on the Hudson Bay, but it was destroyed by the Iroquois in 1688. In 1720, a new Fort Témiscamingue was founded by French merchants on the east side (Quebec) of The Narrows where the two shores of Lake Timiskaming come closer than 250 meters (820 ft) to each other. It eventually went through several owners and today is a National Historical Site in Canada.
In the spring, canoes from Montreal would arrive carrying goods to be traded for furs at this site and other sites further north. The canoes would then be loaded with furs and return to Montreal. These canoe trains would make 3 trips during the summer. The men that worked on the canoes were called Voyaguers. I have attached some pictures below.
Hope your day was as interesting as ours. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
The Beaver, one of the sources for the fur trade
Replicas of the Voyaguers Canoes
A Voyaguer unloading the canoe
Canoe "shop", teepee, and Lake Timiskaming in background
A crooked growing tree in the 'Enchanted Forest'
Thursday 1 September 2016
September 1, 2016
Bonnie: I can tell it is September now--the weather is cooler. In fact this morning when we walked I really got cold.
We began the day with our first delivery for "Meals on Wheels". It didn't take us long, and the good thing was, we had met both seniors. In fact, one lives here in our building, just down the hall. And the other one we met while she was getting physical therapy across the hall from our apartment.
We had a study period for several hours this afternoon with the Elders which was excellent. We have been asked to read a case-study about a superb sister missionary in preparation for Elder Arnold's visit. We had some good discussion. Then, we went out to eat at a restaurant in Englehart. After that, we visited Brother and Sister Cushman. We got home shortly after 9. It's been a good day!
I hope all of you have had a good day, we well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We also stopped to see Brother and Sister Vottero. We are their home teachers starting this month. It was a good visit. When we left their place we tried again to find a less-active brother, Byron Miller. When we knocked on what we thought was his door a man came out. We said we were looking for Byron, but he said he was Larry. He was just renting the house, and Byron lived next door. So we went to that house. A lady answered the door and did her best to keep her dogs inside. She told Bonnie that she had 11 dogs!! She said Byron was down at his silos working. So we drove there and found him. He said now wasn't a good time for him to stop as he had several conveyors running. He said this winter would be a better time! So we just introduced ourselves and said we would be back. He then took off to tend to his work.
The rest of the evening went as Bonnie has written. When we started out to Englehart we decided we could do the shopping on the way back. Because we didn't leave Cushman's till just after 8 we decided to stop and just pick up milk, bread, a couple of items in the pharmacy and a new steam iron. We came home without stopping at all, though!! We were just two seniors out for an evening drive, I guess.
Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We began the day with our first delivery for "Meals on Wheels". It didn't take us long, and the good thing was, we had met both seniors. In fact, one lives here in our building, just down the hall. And the other one we met while she was getting physical therapy across the hall from our apartment.
We had a study period for several hours this afternoon with the Elders which was excellent. We have been asked to read a case-study about a superb sister missionary in preparation for Elder Arnold's visit. We had some good discussion. Then, we went out to eat at a restaurant in Englehart. After that, we visited Brother and Sister Cushman. We got home shortly after 9. It's been a good day!
I hope all of you have had a good day, we well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: We also stopped to see Brother and Sister Vottero. We are their home teachers starting this month. It was a good visit. When we left their place we tried again to find a less-active brother, Byron Miller. When we knocked on what we thought was his door a man came out. We said we were looking for Byron, but he said he was Larry. He was just renting the house, and Byron lived next door. So we went to that house. A lady answered the door and did her best to keep her dogs inside. She told Bonnie that she had 11 dogs!! She said Byron was down at his silos working. So we drove there and found him. He said now wasn't a good time for him to stop as he had several conveyors running. He said this winter would be a better time! So we just introduced ourselves and said we would be back. He then took off to tend to his work.
The rest of the evening went as Bonnie has written. When we started out to Englehart we decided we could do the shopping on the way back. Because we didn't leave Cushman's till just after 8 we decided to stop and just pick up milk, bread, a couple of items in the pharmacy and a new steam iron. We came home without stopping at all, though!! We were just two seniors out for an evening drive, I guess.
Hope your day was wonderful. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
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