Bob: We have reached the end of January. It did not snow today. 4 more weeks of hoping for NO blizzards!!
We went to Latchford today to help Sister Benn at the Consignment store. We worked almost the entire 3 hours on taking items off hangers and replacing them with newer items. There was still lots to do when we left. Took Bonnie to see Emma Sauve about a picture she is drawing for us. Then we went to see Olga Orchard who is waiting in the hospital for a bed to become empty at the Nursing home. Picked up a few things at the grocery store and then went home for dinner.
Had Activity Night tonight. Elder Baird has replaced Elder Holden who is now in Scarborough in a bus area. He will do really well on the bus as he is quite relaxed talking with new people. We are planning a special Valentine's Day activity for the Activity Night attendees. We are going to deliver Valentines to some of the special people in the Branch. It will be fun.
Time for bed. Hope you had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Bob has summarized our day well.
I can't believe that tomorrow is the first of February. The last month of our mission has begun. I hope we can do what the Lord wants us to do these last precious days. I'm not sure we've done much good here in the Temiskaming Branch at least as far as getting less-actives coming back and baptisms. We have done some service so maybe that has been our purpose here. Anyway, it's been a wonderful experience and we have learned a lot. It's been interesting because when we have had a "bad" day, followed with lots of heart-felt prayer, the next day was awesome in some respect. It's amazing how the Lord helps us!
I hope everyone reading our blog will have an awesome day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 31 January 2017
Monday 30 January 2017
January 30, 2017
Bonnie: We've had an interesting day. We finally found a sister home that we have tried to see in the past. She is the mother of the Relief Society President in the french-speaking Abitibi Branch in Quebec. We hope to have a gospel conversation with her soon. We also visited Donna at the nursing home. She has moved to another room which is great because she now has only one room-mate instead of three. Donna would like us to spend hours with her, so because we are leaving soon we will try to go twice a week instead of once a week. Tonight we saw another less-active who is not sure about some basic doctrine, and he is not motivated to find out the truth. Very sad. Coming home tonight the outside temperature varied between -2 to -6, and settled on -4 when we pulled into our parking space. How thankful I am for thermal underclothing and heavy tights and a long down-filled coat! Bob always pulls up the wiper blades and plugs in the car on nights like this to be sure the car will start in the morning. This is normal procedure for all of the vehicles here.
So, everyone stay warm, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy a good book--maybe even the Book of Mormon!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: One thing about Donna. Yes, she only has one roommate now, but she is a very elderly woman that talks to herself occasionally. And when she does she just keeps repeating the same thing over and over. Donna is hoping she is able to tolerate it!!
Not much more to add than we didn't get home till after 8:00. John said to come around 7 which we did, but he was still baking dinner for himself, his son and his son's friend when we got there. We left about 8 so they could eat as soon as the garlic bread was done.
Went swimming today. Did 36 tiring laps. Swam all but about 6 laps by myself. I bet the life guard gets tired of watching one old man swim slowly up and back the pool!!
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
So, everyone stay warm, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy a good book--maybe even the Book of Mormon!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: One thing about Donna. Yes, she only has one roommate now, but she is a very elderly woman that talks to herself occasionally. And when she does she just keeps repeating the same thing over and over. Donna is hoping she is able to tolerate it!!
Not much more to add than we didn't get home till after 8:00. John said to come around 7 which we did, but he was still baking dinner for himself, his son and his son's friend when we got there. We left about 8 so they could eat as soon as the garlic bread was done.
Went swimming today. Did 36 tiring laps. Swam all but about 6 laps by myself. I bet the life guard gets tired of watching one old man swim slowly up and back the pool!!
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Sunday 29 January 2017
January 29, 2016
Bonnie: We just got home from dinner and a visit with President Jakob. It's about 10:30 pm. He provided dinner for not only us but another couple, too. The problem was we were not very hungry because the RS President provided a meal after church as well. We have been well fed in this Branch, for sure. It's been a good Sunday. Bob's talk went well. And after the meeting started, the wife and two daughters of Brother Vottero came in. He is the brother that just had a heart attack and is still in a coma. She gave us an update on her husband, and expressed much faith that he will improve. We are cautiously hopeful.
It's late so I will let Bob finish, I hope everyone has had a good Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I passed on dinner with President Jakob. My belly was too full and I wanted to take a nap during dinner. After everyone else ate, I felt better and was able to participate in the dessert portion! The strawberry ice cream with extra strawberries was very delicious.
The temperature on the way home got as low as 1°, but warmed up to 7° by the time we got here. Personally I couldn't tell the difference. It is just plain cold and very white outside.
For my talk today I shared how the New Martinsville and Temiskaming Branches struggled to get their own buildings, but the growth has been very slow since then. I listed some of the stumbling blocks Elder Cook mentioned in the last conference, and the blessings we get for just trying enumerated by Elder Holland two conferences ago. I also shared 2 experiences of some missionaries in our mission to enforce the points I listed.
Well, it is late and I want to get up and go swimming tomorrow morning. I pray you have had a wonderful weekend and Sabbath Day. My love to each of you and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Here is an experience our Temiskaming Elders had the week before last:
We dropped by a potential investigator, and he wasn't home. A snow storm had just started, and, although we knew the right thing to do was to work the area, neither of us wanted to contact or tract in the discouraging weather. It would have been SO EASY to drive to a different potential. But, we said a prayer and knew we were supposed to be there. We were then inspired to drive to a nearby street, which we then tracted. Along one side of the street, we found two potential investigators. Notwithstanding the cold, we then tracted the other side of the street. The last house we knocked was J. and O., our two new investigators. I distinctly remember my thoughts as I got out of the car to tract the street: "I'm doing this because I love You." Out of our love for the Lord, we followed the Spirit instead of our own desires, and we were blessed with a miracle.
It's late so I will let Bob finish, I hope everyone has had a good Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: I passed on dinner with President Jakob. My belly was too full and I wanted to take a nap during dinner. After everyone else ate, I felt better and was able to participate in the dessert portion! The strawberry ice cream with extra strawberries was very delicious.
The temperature on the way home got as low as 1°, but warmed up to 7° by the time we got here. Personally I couldn't tell the difference. It is just plain cold and very white outside.
For my talk today I shared how the New Martinsville and Temiskaming Branches struggled to get their own buildings, but the growth has been very slow since then. I listed some of the stumbling blocks Elder Cook mentioned in the last conference, and the blessings we get for just trying enumerated by Elder Holland two conferences ago. I also shared 2 experiences of some missionaries in our mission to enforce the points I listed.
Well, it is late and I want to get up and go swimming tomorrow morning. I pray you have had a wonderful weekend and Sabbath Day. My love to each of you and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Here is an experience our Temiskaming Elders had the week before last:
We dropped by a potential investigator, and he wasn't home. A snow storm had just started, and, although we knew the right thing to do was to work the area, neither of us wanted to contact or tract in the discouraging weather. It would have been SO EASY to drive to a different potential. But, we said a prayer and knew we were supposed to be there. We were then inspired to drive to a nearby street, which we then tracted. Along one side of the street, we found two potential investigators. Notwithstanding the cold, we then tracted the other side of the street. The last house we knocked was J. and O., our two new investigators. I distinctly remember my thoughts as I got out of the car to tract the street: "I'm doing this because I love You." Out of our love for the Lord, we followed the Spirit instead of our own desires, and we were blessed with a miracle.
Saturday 28 January 2017
January 28, 2017
Bob: We made it safely to Brampton and back. The roads were slick in spots, but mostly okay. The worst roads were areas between North Bay and Orillia, but the snow plows were out.
We stayed at the Mission Home which is a real treat. We didn't get there till between 10:30 and 11:00. President and Sister Shields were up and wanted to talk with us and Sister Margetson, who went with us. It was fun, but we finally had to call it quits and go to bed.
Getting into the temple proved a little difficult for me. It seems my recommend expired at the end of December!! I knew when I came out on the mission it would be good for the entire time, but I forgot when we extended to renew it. Had to call President Shields from the temple. He interviewed me over the phone and the temple filled out the recommend. I missed going on the 5:15 session because of this, but Elder Allred, a temple missionary and our friend, said he thought they could keep me busy. He had me do initiatories till 7:05 when I got ready for the next endowment session with Bonnie and Sister Margetson.
We went back to the temple this morning and did another endowment before leaving. Had to go back to the Mission Home and get the pants I left in the closet! Always forgetting something.
I'll let Bonnie finish up now. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had a wonderful temple trip. One of the best parts was seeing several friends we have not seen in awhile. Sister Margetson lived in Brampton area and served in the temple for quite some time. She had joyful reunions with several old friends as well.We got back about 7:30 tonight. Bob has been working on his talk for tomorrow. I'm getting prepared for the Sabbath, too. We have been invited to stay after church for dinner, with the young Elders and probably President Jakob and the three little girls.The dinner will be provided by the RS President!. How sweet it is.
May tomorrow be a joyful, spiritual day for all of us.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We stayed at the Mission Home which is a real treat. We didn't get there till between 10:30 and 11:00. President and Sister Shields were up and wanted to talk with us and Sister Margetson, who went with us. It was fun, but we finally had to call it quits and go to bed.
Getting into the temple proved a little difficult for me. It seems my recommend expired at the end of December!! I knew when I came out on the mission it would be good for the entire time, but I forgot when we extended to renew it. Had to call President Shields from the temple. He interviewed me over the phone and the temple filled out the recommend. I missed going on the 5:15 session because of this, but Elder Allred, a temple missionary and our friend, said he thought they could keep me busy. He had me do initiatories till 7:05 when I got ready for the next endowment session with Bonnie and Sister Margetson.
We went back to the temple this morning and did another endowment before leaving. Had to go back to the Mission Home and get the pants I left in the closet! Always forgetting something.
I'll let Bonnie finish up now. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We had a wonderful temple trip. One of the best parts was seeing several friends we have not seen in awhile. Sister Margetson lived in Brampton area and served in the temple for quite some time. She had joyful reunions with several old friends as well.We got back about 7:30 tonight. Bob has been working on his talk for tomorrow. I'm getting prepared for the Sabbath, too. We have been invited to stay after church for dinner, with the young Elders and probably President Jakob and the three little girls.The dinner will be provided by the RS President!. How sweet it is.
May tomorrow be a joyful, spiritual day for all of us.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Thursday 26 January 2017
January 26, 2017
Bob: Had to take the car in for an oil change today. Last one before leaving Canada. Should get home before we need another one. According to our car czar GM told the church that if the cars use synthetic oil that they would recommend changing the oil at 15,000 km (9000 mi). I'm changing ours between 8000 and 9000.
Went to Englehart to visit Sister Cushman in the hospital, but she had just gotten back to the nursing home when we got there. She is weak and still recovering from a slight heart attack and pneumonia but her prognosis is good.
On the way home we stopped in Cobalt to see Sister LaPointe. Her boy friend is arriving tomorrow and moving in with her. Looks like we have a long way to go with her.
Officiated the men's league tonight and felt fine.
Time for bed. Hope you have had a great day. We will be going to Brampton tomorrow morning so I doubt if we will post tomorrow night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It looks like Bob has explained our day well enough. We are all set for our temple trip tomorrow, I think. The weather is turning colder now, after a whole week of mild temperatures. I'm prepared for it, hopefully. I'm looking so forward to going to the temple! I hope everyone has a glorious day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Went to Englehart to visit Sister Cushman in the hospital, but she had just gotten back to the nursing home when we got there. She is weak and still recovering from a slight heart attack and pneumonia but her prognosis is good.
On the way home we stopped in Cobalt to see Sister LaPointe. Her boy friend is arriving tomorrow and moving in with her. Looks like we have a long way to go with her.
Officiated the men's league tonight and felt fine.
Time for bed. Hope you have had a great day. We will be going to Brampton tomorrow morning so I doubt if we will post tomorrow night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It looks like Bob has explained our day well enough. We are all set for our temple trip tomorrow, I think. The weather is turning colder now, after a whole week of mild temperatures. I'm prepared for it, hopefully. I'm looking so forward to going to the temple! I hope everyone has a glorious day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 25 January 2017
January 25, 2017
Bob: Awoke to some new snow this morning, but it was only about 1/2 inch. It all melted before day's end. Temperature per the car thermometer was 41°.
There was a special missionary broadcast today from Salt Lake City. It was presented by the Missionary Executive Council. Elder Oaks chairs the council. Elders Bednar and Andersen, Sister Oscarson, Elder Waddell (PBO) and 2 others are on the council. It was a good presentation and stressed the importance of our missionary purpose (Helping others come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored Gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduing to the end).
In the afternoon we delivered Meals on Wheels. For dinner we went to the monthly potluck here in the complex.
Tonight we visited with our dear brother, Conrad Corville. It was a good visit and we invited him to church on Sunday. We are hoping he will come.
Time for bed. Hope you had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We've had a good day. For the pot luck I tried a new twist to the famous funeral potato recipe. I added two cups of diced ham. It turned out just great! It was a challenge to keep it warm, however, because we had to do our meal deliveries after it came out of the oven. Then after we were done doing that, we had only a few minutes before the pot luck dinner. It worked out ok, thankfully. I made friends with two other ladies in our building, too. One invited me over just to talk! In fact, she asked me if I was a nun! You can bet I will follow up on that invitation, probably during one of Bob's basketball games.
I really enjoyed the church-wide missionary broadcast. We will be doing things a bit differently than we have been for our last few weeks here. What an experience a mission is. I'm grateful for what I have learned!
May we all have had a great day today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
There was a special missionary broadcast today from Salt Lake City. It was presented by the Missionary Executive Council. Elder Oaks chairs the council. Elders Bednar and Andersen, Sister Oscarson, Elder Waddell (PBO) and 2 others are on the council. It was a good presentation and stressed the importance of our missionary purpose (Helping others come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored Gospel through faith in Jesus Christ and His Atonement, repentance, baptism, receiving the Gift of the Holy Ghost, and enduing to the end).
In the afternoon we delivered Meals on Wheels. For dinner we went to the monthly potluck here in the complex.
Tonight we visited with our dear brother, Conrad Corville. It was a good visit and we invited him to church on Sunday. We are hoping he will come.
Time for bed. Hope you had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: We've had a good day. For the pot luck I tried a new twist to the famous funeral potato recipe. I added two cups of diced ham. It turned out just great! It was a challenge to keep it warm, however, because we had to do our meal deliveries after it came out of the oven. Then after we were done doing that, we had only a few minutes before the pot luck dinner. It worked out ok, thankfully. I made friends with two other ladies in our building, too. One invited me over just to talk! In fact, she asked me if I was a nun! You can bet I will follow up on that invitation, probably during one of Bob's basketball games.
I really enjoyed the church-wide missionary broadcast. We will be doing things a bit differently than we have been for our last few weeks here. What an experience a mission is. I'm grateful for what I have learned!
May we all have had a great day today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 24 January 2017
January 24, 2017
Bob: Did not wake up till after 8:00 today. And I had a pain in my chest! It comes and goes. Thought it might be related to my sore throat. It is better this evening.
We went to visit a referral from Sister Ng today. She was very receptive and we taught part of the Restoration discussion. She has a desire to know what God's plan is for her. Tried to build on that and help her realize that if she is willing to act on what God tells her then He will lead her. We'll see how it goes.
Had high school basketball games to do at 4:00. New Liskeard was playing Englehart, which beat New Liskeard earlier this season. NL coach told me it would be a very competitive game. Well NL scored the first 27 points of the game and led 27 - 5 at halftime. I think the final score was 56 - 14 so it wasn't much of a game after all. NL just controlled the boards and Englehart couldn't hit the floor if they dropped the ball. I told Brad about the game and he showed up to watch what was supposed to be a good game. Didn't turn out that way.
We had Activity Night tonight. In attendance were the Humphreys, Cambridges, Sister Margetson, YSAs Delainey and David, the Elders and ourselves. Did not play games tonight. Instead we each wrote something about ourself that nobody knew. Then we tried to figure out who it was. Had a good time learning more about each other.
Well I'm about done for the night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It worked out to be a good day, especially ending with our Activity Night. The only downside is that Karol Cushman is in the hospital because of a minor heart attack and pneumonia. The Elders drove up to Engelhart to give her a blessing which she appreciated. Wow! I can't believe the number of people in the Branch that need our prayers.
I guess we all are in need of prayers, though. May the Lord bless all of us!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We went to visit a referral from Sister Ng today. She was very receptive and we taught part of the Restoration discussion. She has a desire to know what God's plan is for her. Tried to build on that and help her realize that if she is willing to act on what God tells her then He will lead her. We'll see how it goes.
Had high school basketball games to do at 4:00. New Liskeard was playing Englehart, which beat New Liskeard earlier this season. NL coach told me it would be a very competitive game. Well NL scored the first 27 points of the game and led 27 - 5 at halftime. I think the final score was 56 - 14 so it wasn't much of a game after all. NL just controlled the boards and Englehart couldn't hit the floor if they dropped the ball. I told Brad about the game and he showed up to watch what was supposed to be a good game. Didn't turn out that way.
We had Activity Night tonight. In attendance were the Humphreys, Cambridges, Sister Margetson, YSAs Delainey and David, the Elders and ourselves. Did not play games tonight. Instead we each wrote something about ourself that nobody knew. Then we tried to figure out who it was. Had a good time learning more about each other.
Well I'm about done for the night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: It worked out to be a good day, especially ending with our Activity Night. The only downside is that Karol Cushman is in the hospital because of a minor heart attack and pneumonia. The Elders drove up to Engelhart to give her a blessing which she appreciated. Wow! I can't believe the number of people in the Branch that need our prayers.
I guess we all are in need of prayers, though. May the Lord bless all of us!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Monday 23 January 2017
January 23, 2017
Bonnie: We went to visit our friend Jim who lives way out in Milberta Township today. He graciously stopped working to have a chat. We gave him the Book of Mormon and a Restoration pamphlet. He seems like he will read it. We hope so, although he has said that he is not interested in joining another church. He suggested that the church get involved with the ministerial association so we could work with other churches in the area. I wrote down the name of his pastor who is part of that group. We will definitely bring that up in Branch Council.
Tonight we had the Elders over for dinner. They were meeting with a man in our building. I hope we see him at our Activity Night tomorrow night. After dinner we went to see Donna in the nursing home. We will go earlier in the day from now on.
We have had a bit of encouraging news about our friend Ron Voterro. He is somewhat better, thankfully, but not "out of the woods" just yet.
We hope everyone is doing well and that the Lord is blessing all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add to what Bonnie said. I did reach Conrad today and was able to set an appointment for Wednesday evening. He said he is looking forward to it.
Wanted to swim today, but got up with a sore throat once again so I didn't go. Starting on the gargling salt water routine. We'll see how it plays out. I'll be able to see a doctor in Brampton Friday or Saturday if is hasn't cleared up by then.
Hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Love,
Dad/Bob
Tonight we had the Elders over for dinner. They were meeting with a man in our building. I hope we see him at our Activity Night tomorrow night. After dinner we went to see Donna in the nursing home. We will go earlier in the day from now on.
We have had a bit of encouraging news about our friend Ron Voterro. He is somewhat better, thankfully, but not "out of the woods" just yet.
We hope everyone is doing well and that the Lord is blessing all of you.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add to what Bonnie said. I did reach Conrad today and was able to set an appointment for Wednesday evening. He said he is looking forward to it.
Wanted to swim today, but got up with a sore throat once again so I didn't go. Starting on the gargling salt water routine. We'll see how it plays out. I'll be able to see a doctor in Brampton Friday or Saturday if is hasn't cleared up by then.
Hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Love,
Dad/Bob
Sunday 22 January 2017
January 22, 2017
Bob: Church went well today. Bonnie gave a great farewell talk. Now I have to put one together. So many thoughts running through my mind that I'm not sure where I want to go with this. Putting some ideas on paper, but not sure it's what I want to say.
We visited Sister Huywan today. She is now 95.5 years old as of the 16th. She is pretty spry and seems to enjoy talking with her visitors. Has some problems recalling dates, but who doesn't that is over 50? That's fair warning to those not yet 50. You'll see some day, so don't be too judgmental now!! Of course this is not a problem with Bonnie and I.☺
Snow continues to melt and the side streets are all wet and filthy. I see where there was a lot of snow in Utah this weekend. Saw a notice that Salt Lake County basketball games were NOT cancelled. Also saw some pictures of snow in Daniel's Summit. Looks like you're getting more than us right now. Ours is coming though. They say February is the worse snow month here.
That's about it for now. Hope your team is going to the Super Bowl and that you had a wonderful weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm glad my talk is over, but I know there will be others, maybe not here, though. I rewrote it yesterday. There is much sadness in our Branch right now. We are waiting to hear about one of the staunchest brothers in our Branch. He will probably pass away tonight or tomorrow. So hard!
We planned out our week tonight. We hope to see some potential investigators tomorrow. Wouldn't that be great? I pray we know what to say and how to say it--that we have the spirit with us as we talk.
I hope everyone has a good week ahead.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We visited Sister Huywan today. She is now 95.5 years old as of the 16th. She is pretty spry and seems to enjoy talking with her visitors. Has some problems recalling dates, but who doesn't that is over 50? That's fair warning to those not yet 50. You'll see some day, so don't be too judgmental now!! Of course this is not a problem with Bonnie and I.☺
Snow continues to melt and the side streets are all wet and filthy. I see where there was a lot of snow in Utah this weekend. Saw a notice that Salt Lake County basketball games were NOT cancelled. Also saw some pictures of snow in Daniel's Summit. Looks like you're getting more than us right now. Ours is coming though. They say February is the worse snow month here.
That's about it for now. Hope your team is going to the Super Bowl and that you had a wonderful weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm glad my talk is over, but I know there will be others, maybe not here, though. I rewrote it yesterday. There is much sadness in our Branch right now. We are waiting to hear about one of the staunchest brothers in our Branch. He will probably pass away tonight or tomorrow. So hard!
We planned out our week tonight. We hope to see some potential investigators tomorrow. Wouldn't that be great? I pray we know what to say and how to say it--that we have the spirit with us as we talk.
I hope everyone has a good week ahead.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Saturday 21 January 2017
January 21, 2017
Bob: We went to Latchford today to help Sister Benn some more. When we leave someone will need to step up or we don't believe she will be able to carry on at the rate she is going. We hung up a lot of clothes that she had priced and then put away all the Christmas items. She helped a little with this but not much. She just tires out too quickly.
We learned today that Brother Voterro has taken a turn for the worst and has been put on life support. All the family has been notified and they are gathering in Sudbury. We heard that he will be taken off life support tomorrow once everyone arrives. This will be the 2nd death in less than 2 weeks for our Branch. Prayers for the Voterro's and the Jakob's are appreciated.
Weather is still in the high 30s and we are enjoying it. The car is filthy because of wet roads but it is worth it to have some of the snow melting. Don't think it will all go away however before more eventually comes.
Bonnie has been working on her talk all week and decided tonight to rewrite it because of Patsy's death and Brother Voterro's impending death. She was writing her talk in WORD and somehow got 'Track Changes' turned on. What a nightmare we had trying to get that turned off. Finally got it printed, but it cost her a lot of time. Think she is ready to go though.
Time for bed. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Nothing to add although we do need your prayers. There is a third thing going on--Sister Cambridge's granddaughter was in a bad accident in Toronto, with her boyfriend. These are two very good LDS kids. How much more can this little Branch handle? I don't want to know!!
May we enjoy our Sabbath Day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
We learned today that Brother Voterro has taken a turn for the worst and has been put on life support. All the family has been notified and they are gathering in Sudbury. We heard that he will be taken off life support tomorrow once everyone arrives. This will be the 2nd death in less than 2 weeks for our Branch. Prayers for the Voterro's and the Jakob's are appreciated.
Weather is still in the high 30s and we are enjoying it. The car is filthy because of wet roads but it is worth it to have some of the snow melting. Don't think it will all go away however before more eventually comes.
Bonnie has been working on her talk all week and decided tonight to rewrite it because of Patsy's death and Brother Voterro's impending death. She was writing her talk in WORD and somehow got 'Track Changes' turned on. What a nightmare we had trying to get that turned off. Finally got it printed, but it cost her a lot of time. Think she is ready to go though.
Time for bed. Hope your weekend is going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Nothing to add although we do need your prayers. There is a third thing going on--Sister Cambridge's granddaughter was in a bad accident in Toronto, with her boyfriend. These are two very good LDS kids. How much more can this little Branch handle? I don't want to know!!
May we enjoy our Sabbath Day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 20 January 2017
January 20, 2017
Bob: Went swimming this morning. Wishing now that I had skipped it. My throat was slightly sore when I went. Now it is worse. The pool water was quite cool this morning. The lifeguard said she has contacted maintenance about the problem. Been that way since Wednesday.
Went to Kirkland Lake today. Visited 4 people and didn't get home till after 8. Came home via the Larder Lake shortcut. Still some snow of the road and the moose are out. Had to take it very slow.
The temperatures were in the high 30s today. Some of the towns have cleaned all the ice off their streets. Washed about 50 pounds of dirt off the car at the car wash.
Time for bed. Hope your weekend goes well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. It's been a very good day. Tomorrow we will be helping Sister Benn at her consignment shop and then we need to do the shopping . Hopefully we will have the time to see a few other people, too.
Sleep tight, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Went to Kirkland Lake today. Visited 4 people and didn't get home till after 8. Came home via the Larder Lake shortcut. Still some snow of the road and the moose are out. Had to take it very slow.
The temperatures were in the high 30s today. Some of the towns have cleaned all the ice off their streets. Washed about 50 pounds of dirt off the car at the car wash.
Time for bed. Hope your weekend goes well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. It's been a very good day. Tomorrow we will be helping Sister Benn at her consignment shop and then we need to do the shopping . Hopefully we will have the time to see a few other people, too.
Sleep tight, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Thursday 19 January 2017
January 19, 2017
Bob: Brother Vottero of our Branch had a heart attack last night and was taken to the Englehart hospital. We got a call about it this morning at 10:00 or so. Brother Cambridge and I went to give him a blessing. We had only been in his room for about 30 seconds when a lady came in and told him they were going to fly him to Sudbury!! So we hurried up and gave him a blessing. Warren had to help him sit up and he couldn't enunciate his full name very well for us. We only had about 3 or 4 minutes with him and we had to leave. Haven't heard anymore about him.
On the way back I had to stop at the high school to officiate their game. Warren went to the office and had his daughter-in-law, who works there, call his wife to come and get him.
When I did get home I made nachos and cheese for our lunch/dinner and then went to visit Wiwchars. Bonnie gave Lorraine the VT message for the month. On the way home I stopped at Granny's Chipper and got an order of fries and gravy. Yum, yum!!
Tonight I did the basketball games for the men's league. Things were much more physical tonight than normal, but no blood was drawn and we got through it. Only one technical called.
Better close for now. Hope all is well with everyone. Get the reunion ironed out and we'll be there. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. The reason we were called first about Bro. Voterro is that I was supposed to go visiting teaching with his wife today. I pray that everything will go well with this dear brother. He and his wife are staunch supporters of everything we do in the Branch. Our Branch does not need any more stuff like this. Such worry and heart-ache for all of us! May the Lord bless him and his family and all of us reading our blog.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
On the way back I had to stop at the high school to officiate their game. Warren went to the office and had his daughter-in-law, who works there, call his wife to come and get him.
When I did get home I made nachos and cheese for our lunch/dinner and then went to visit Wiwchars. Bonnie gave Lorraine the VT message for the month. On the way home I stopped at Granny's Chipper and got an order of fries and gravy. Yum, yum!!
Tonight I did the basketball games for the men's league. Things were much more physical tonight than normal, but no blood was drawn and we got through it. Only one technical called.
Better close for now. Hope all is well with everyone. Get the reunion ironed out and we'll be there. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have much to add. The reason we were called first about Bro. Voterro is that I was supposed to go visiting teaching with his wife today. I pray that everything will go well with this dear brother. He and his wife are staunch supporters of everything we do in the Branch. Our Branch does not need any more stuff like this. Such worry and heart-ache for all of us! May the Lord bless him and his family and all of us reading our blog.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Wednesday 18 January 2017
January 18, 2017
Bob: Got up and went swimming again this morning. Came home with a serious back ache. It hasn't gotten much better all day. As a consequence I haven't done too much today. Did take the car to the garage as it has developed a shimmy and something was hanging down underneath the car. Had the wheels balanced. Shimmy is gone and the piece underneath has been repaired. They did not see any damage from the 'ditching' the other night. (Of course, the ditching refers to the time we slid into a large ditch full of snow, and halfway up the other side on our way to Elk Lake.) Then I helped Bonnie with the 'Meals on Wheels'. She did most of the work as it just plain hurts getting in and out of the car. After dinner we went upstairs to see a potential, but he didn't answer the door. Saw him today in the hallway and he said 'it's WV', referring to me.
Tonight Bonnie heated up her rice bag and I put it on my back. It seems to help.
Another day of mild temperatures. While swimming today I counted 42 fishing huts out on the ice covering Lake Temiskaming.
Time for bed now. Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today I spent most of the day working on my "farewell" talk that I have been assigned to give this Sunday. It's early because of the schedule in February, with Branch conference and Stake Conference in the same month. And we have a young adult who is leaving on a mission the first week in March, so she will speak on the one free Sunday in February. I can't wait until this is over. I really don't like giving 20 minute talks!
Today, we delivered five Meals on Wheels. Most of the time we have two or three. It took us over an hour to do it. I like meeting these older people, though. They have interesting stories to tell.
Tomorrow, Bob has basketball games and I am going visiting teaching with one of the sisters in the Branch. It will be a good day.
May we all have a good day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tonight Bonnie heated up her rice bag and I put it on my back. It seems to help.
Another day of mild temperatures. While swimming today I counted 42 fishing huts out on the ice covering Lake Temiskaming.
Time for bed now. Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today I spent most of the day working on my "farewell" talk that I have been assigned to give this Sunday. It's early because of the schedule in February, with Branch conference and Stake Conference in the same month. And we have a young adult who is leaving on a mission the first week in March, so she will speak on the one free Sunday in February. I can't wait until this is over. I really don't like giving 20 minute talks!
Today, we delivered five Meals on Wheels. Most of the time we have two or three. It took us over an hour to do it. I like meeting these older people, though. They have interesting stories to tell.
Tomorrow, Bob has basketball games and I am going visiting teaching with one of the sisters in the Branch. It will be a good day.
May we all have a good day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Tuesday 17 January 2017
January 17, 2017
Bob: Patsy's funeral was today. It went quite well. Her son, Lee, was the main speaker and he did a good job of relating many of the happy things his mother is known for. Tom Cambridge, a counselor to President Jakob, was the officiator. He added some final thoughts. In particular he said we all need to reflect on where we came from and who is really important to us. Who would we miss if they were gone tomorrow? I agree that we should think about those two things.
After the funeral a large crowd attended the luncheon at the church. I don't know how many were there, but if we had that many every Sunday we would be breaking ground for a new building.
I'm taking the car to the garage tomorrow to have it checked. Some of the plastic underneath the car is loose and drags the ground at almost all the little bumps in the road.
Temperatures have been above freezing so far this week and is supposed to continue until at least Friday. We still have a lot of snow and the lake is still frozen over. I saw a 4- wheeler going up the lake today. There are about 30 fishing huts on the lake so far.
I was able to make reservations today for all of our planned stops on the way home. We'll let you know when we're planning to see you.
Well time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: The funeral did go well. But, we barely had enough room in the activity portion of our building for everyone to eat. One of the best parts was that we did not run out of food. There were sandwiches galore left. The R.S. President made lots of extra egg salad and brought at least two extra loaves of bread just in case. We were a tired lot by the time we got everything cleaned up. But, it was worth it. I think Patsy is happy with how everything turned out.
We came home and after a rest began planning out the rest of the week. We will be busy and that is good! May we all have fulfilling, busy days ahead.
Love, Mom/ Bonnie
After the funeral a large crowd attended the luncheon at the church. I don't know how many were there, but if we had that many every Sunday we would be breaking ground for a new building.
I'm taking the car to the garage tomorrow to have it checked. Some of the plastic underneath the car is loose and drags the ground at almost all the little bumps in the road.
Temperatures have been above freezing so far this week and is supposed to continue until at least Friday. We still have a lot of snow and the lake is still frozen over. I saw a 4- wheeler going up the lake today. There are about 30 fishing huts on the lake so far.
I was able to make reservations today for all of our planned stops on the way home. We'll let you know when we're planning to see you.
Well time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: The funeral did go well. But, we barely had enough room in the activity portion of our building for everyone to eat. One of the best parts was that we did not run out of food. There were sandwiches galore left. The R.S. President made lots of extra egg salad and brought at least two extra loaves of bread just in case. We were a tired lot by the time we got everything cleaned up. But, it was worth it. I think Patsy is happy with how everything turned out.
We came home and after a rest began planning out the rest of the week. We will be busy and that is good! May we all have fulfilling, busy days ahead.
Love, Mom/ Bonnie
Monday 16 January 2017
January 16, 2016
Bob: The high school I am officiating for bought me a new pair of officiating shoes. The shoes pictured below ran out of gas last Thursday. The high school coach had his mother buy a pair in North Bay and she brought them to New Liskeard Sunday. She was coming anyway. Their Athletic Director told me the school wanted to get me something for doing their games since I won't accept pay for them. When the coach told her on Friday about my shoes she told him to get me new shoes and that the school would pay for them. Picked them up this morning.
After I picked up the shoes I went to the French high school here in New Liskeard and officiated a game between them and a team from Fort Albany. Look up Fort Albany, Ontario on Google Maps. No roads into it. You have to fly to it. It is up on the Hudson Bay. Their team will be playing all the schools around here at least once for a week or so and sometimes more than once. This afternoon I officiated the game between them and New Liskeard HS. They will play again on Thursday.
Tonight we had a dinner appointment with Elders Cannon and Zobell. We went to 'Roosters' for dinner. We were very impressed with this restaurant. I don't think we have been to a better restaurant in all our travels in the North.
Also spent some time looking up motels and making reservations for our trip home. Just learned today that Microtel has a new motel in New Martinsville. We'll be checking it out Mar 10 - Mar 13
Well it is time for bed. Hope you had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I did errands during Bob's first game, and then baked a "snack" cake for the funeral tomorrow during his second game. I am also baking two pizzas for the funeral--each one providing 24 pieces. We think there will be about 80 people at the luncheon, so it will be crowded in our relatively small activity area. When we met with the other missionaries tonight at the church, I was ready to vacuum and put up tables and chairs. It was already done when we got there, complete with table cloths!
I hope tomorrow goes well. It will be difficult saying good-bye again to Patsy. She is a treasured friend.
Sleep tight everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
After I picked up the shoes I went to the French high school here in New Liskeard and officiated a game between them and a team from Fort Albany. Look up Fort Albany, Ontario on Google Maps. No roads into it. You have to fly to it. It is up on the Hudson Bay. Their team will be playing all the schools around here at least once for a week or so and sometimes more than once. This afternoon I officiated the game between them and New Liskeard HS. They will play again on Thursday.
Tonight we had a dinner appointment with Elders Cannon and Zobell. We went to 'Roosters' for dinner. We were very impressed with this restaurant. I don't think we have been to a better restaurant in all our travels in the North.
Also spent some time looking up motels and making reservations for our trip home. Just learned today that Microtel has a new motel in New Martinsville. We'll be checking it out Mar 10 - Mar 13
Well it is time for bed. Hope you had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I did errands during Bob's first game, and then baked a "snack" cake for the funeral tomorrow during his second game. I am also baking two pizzas for the funeral--each one providing 24 pieces. We think there will be about 80 people at the luncheon, so it will be crowded in our relatively small activity area. When we met with the other missionaries tonight at the church, I was ready to vacuum and put up tables and chairs. It was already done when we got there, complete with table cloths!
I hope tomorrow goes well. It will be difficult saying good-bye again to Patsy. She is a treasured friend.
Sleep tight everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Damaged shoe
Sunday 15 January 2017
January 15, 2017
Bob: Sacrament Meeting was very well attended today. I believe there were almost 40 people there (Big crowd for our Branch.) However, there were lots of heavy hearts because of Sister Jakob.
The High Councilman and his wife both spoke today. Both talks were very interesting. She based her talk on the question, 'Am I a Martha, or a Mary?'. He talked about gratitude. Next week I think Sister Martin will be the main speaker!! I will follow her the Sunday after that.
Elders Cannon and Zobell got here around 9:00. Had a nice chat with them and enjoyed warm blueberry cobbler with whipping cream that Sister Martin prepared. The cobbler more than makes up for all the cold weather outside.
Hope your weekend was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today was special because a less-active couple came to church!! They stayed for the entire time, and seemed to emjoy it. It was great. After church was the pot luck for the month. There was some good food as always. So, we came home and relaxed (in other words, Bob took a nap!) and then we went to see two people in our building. The first couple had shared some cabbage rolls with us so we returned their container. Then, we went to see Lois to give her a large-print Book of Mormon. We always have delightful conversations with her, especially about religion. She is a very special lady.
Tomorrow there are lots of things to do in preparation for the funeral. And we will be seeing Elder Zobell and Elder Cannon tomorrow night with the young Elders at 7:30. The funeral is Tuesday at noon. It will be a crazy two days.
May we all be rejuvinated for the week ahead because of our Sabbath today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
The High Councilman and his wife both spoke today. Both talks were very interesting. She based her talk on the question, 'Am I a Martha, or a Mary?'. He talked about gratitude. Next week I think Sister Martin will be the main speaker!! I will follow her the Sunday after that.
Elders Cannon and Zobell got here around 9:00. Had a nice chat with them and enjoyed warm blueberry cobbler with whipping cream that Sister Martin prepared. The cobbler more than makes up for all the cold weather outside.
Hope your weekend was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Today was special because a less-active couple came to church!! They stayed for the entire time, and seemed to emjoy it. It was great. After church was the pot luck for the month. There was some good food as always. So, we came home and relaxed (in other words, Bob took a nap!) and then we went to see two people in our building. The first couple had shared some cabbage rolls with us so we returned their container. Then, we went to see Lois to give her a large-print Book of Mormon. We always have delightful conversations with her, especially about religion. She is a very special lady.
Tomorrow there are lots of things to do in preparation for the funeral. And we will be seeing Elder Zobell and Elder Cannon tomorrow night with the young Elders at 7:30. The funeral is Tuesday at noon. It will be a crazy two days.
May we all be rejuvinated for the week ahead because of our Sabbath today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Saturday 14 January 2017
January 14, 2017
Bob: It has been a good day. We got up this morning, no new snow on the ground, and left about 10:40 to pickup the Norm and Margaret Villneff. Their car is broken down and we offered to take them shopping. Bonnie and Margaret went grocery shopping while Norm and I stopped at Canadian Tire and TSC looking for a winter head band for myself. Finally found one. I have 2 or 3 at home, but need one here. The ladies finished up about 1:30 and we took them home.
Then we went to visit Donna Craig in the nursing home. She has a cold and sounds very congested. We couldn't talk much with her, but she just wants company around. She even napped a little while we were there. She asked for a blessing as we getting ready to leave so I called the Elders and they came to help. We then left the Elders to visit with Donna. On our way out her daughter, Jeannie, was coming in the door.
Then we drove to Englehart to drop off some muffins to the Fields. Her mother passed away on Wednesday I believe. They are good friends of the Jakob's.
We came home and had dinner. Finally Bonnie started gathering up the ingredients for a broccoli casserole when she realized that she didn't have everything, We made another trip to Walmart to get the necessary item.
That's about it for the day. Hope your weekend has been great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm trying to get organized for Church tomorrow, which includes a Pot Luck dinner. We are picking up our YSA friend and will be leaving earlier than usual. I had two opportunities to buy what I needed before tonight and still forgot to get everything. Oh, well.
Our day has gone well. In fact, one of our less-actives who works at Walmart told us today that she will be coming to church tomorrow. I sincerely hope that she does. The loss of Patsy Jakob has been a wake-up call for some.
Well, it's time to get ready for bed. I hope everyone has a blessed Sabbath day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Then we went to visit Donna Craig in the nursing home. She has a cold and sounds very congested. We couldn't talk much with her, but she just wants company around. She even napped a little while we were there. She asked for a blessing as we getting ready to leave so I called the Elders and they came to help. We then left the Elders to visit with Donna. On our way out her daughter, Jeannie, was coming in the door.
Then we drove to Englehart to drop off some muffins to the Fields. Her mother passed away on Wednesday I believe. They are good friends of the Jakob's.
We came home and had dinner. Finally Bonnie started gathering up the ingredients for a broccoli casserole when she realized that she didn't have everything, We made another trip to Walmart to get the necessary item.
That's about it for the day. Hope your weekend has been great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I'm trying to get organized for Church tomorrow, which includes a Pot Luck dinner. We are picking up our YSA friend and will be leaving earlier than usual. I had two opportunities to buy what I needed before tonight and still forgot to get everything. Oh, well.
Our day has gone well. In fact, one of our less-actives who works at Walmart told us today that she will be coming to church tomorrow. I sincerely hope that she does. The loss of Patsy Jakob has been a wake-up call for some.
Well, it's time to get ready for bed. I hope everyone has a blessed Sabbath day tomorrow.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Friday 13 January 2017
January 13, 2017
Bob: This is the second blog tonight. The first one somehow got deleted. Both of us had saved it, but then an error occurred. So I closed the site down and reopened it. Our first blog was gone.
On Wednesday evening Bonnie and I left the Jakob's to come home and pick up some items before going back there. The road conditions were pretty bad, but not as bad as Tuesday night had been. We were only a mile or so from Elk Cabins when I got too close to the plowed snow on the right side of the road. Once the wheel entered the snow the car was pulled to the right and off the road we went. We went down about an 8 foot embankment and just barely up the other side. The snow was so deep that I could not open the driver's side door. The doors on the passenger side could be opened, however. The car did not shut off, but just kept running. I watched the temperature gauge throughout our time in the snow and the motor never did over-heat. Almost immediately a couple of cars stopped to assist us but there was no way they could pull the car up the embankment. Both of them suggested calling Cobalt Car Clinic which has several tow vehicles. I called them about 6:00 and they got there around 7:15. While the tow truck operator pulled the car out of the ditch we sat in the back of the OPP squad car! The cop took our picture which we wanted to send to President Shields, but it didn't turn out real well as he had to take it from outside the car. We finally were able to leave the scene about 8:00. There is very little damage to the car. Nothing that can't wait till we get home to have fixed. And thankfully nothing happened to either of us.
Today we tried to see our friend Donna, but there is still a flu outbreak at the Nursing Home. Bonnie talked to her on the phone tonight and we are allowed to visit if we wear masks. We'll go see her tomorrow.
Also went to the Church today and took down the Christmas decorations. Bonnie put the Christmas decorations away in the apartment also. Valentine things will be coming out shortly I believe. (He didn't notice they are already out!!)
In the morning we are taking Margaret Villneff shopping with us. She doesn't get out much as their car is broken down. Norm, her husband, walks to work and their neighbors help them out as necessary. We volunteered for tomorrow though.
The funeral for Sister Jakob is set for Tuesday. The viewing is at 11:00, the service at 12:00, and a meal to follow at the Church. It is so sad to have lost such a dear friend. I hope Karl is able is cope okay. The gospel will help him do so.
Time for bed. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I enjoyed staying at the Jakob's. We slept on the couches in their family room. The three foster daughters are good most of the time and I had an "angel" come Thursday night to help me. A twelve-year-old girl who is also a foster child lives close by to the Jakob's. She called me and offered to help for the evening, while Bob reffed games at the HS in New Liskeard. She was patient and kind and helped two of the girls fold and straighten the clothes in their small dressers. We had some homemade soup for dinner and soon after the girls got ready for bed. She helped with all of it.
The night we slid off the road I counted at least 12 people who offered to help us. If the car had quit running I would have gladly let them--it was a cold night and we had to wait over an hour for help to arrive. The Lord truly blessed us.
And I ache for Sister Jakob. She was my first friend in the Branch. I miss her so much!!
The Valentine things will stay out until we leave in about 6 1/2 weeks. The time is flying by! There is much to do and many people to see before we leave!
Have a good night, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
On Wednesday evening Bonnie and I left the Jakob's to come home and pick up some items before going back there. The road conditions were pretty bad, but not as bad as Tuesday night had been. We were only a mile or so from Elk Cabins when I got too close to the plowed snow on the right side of the road. Once the wheel entered the snow the car was pulled to the right and off the road we went. We went down about an 8 foot embankment and just barely up the other side. The snow was so deep that I could not open the driver's side door. The doors on the passenger side could be opened, however. The car did not shut off, but just kept running. I watched the temperature gauge throughout our time in the snow and the motor never did over-heat. Almost immediately a couple of cars stopped to assist us but there was no way they could pull the car up the embankment. Both of them suggested calling Cobalt Car Clinic which has several tow vehicles. I called them about 6:00 and they got there around 7:15. While the tow truck operator pulled the car out of the ditch we sat in the back of the OPP squad car! The cop took our picture which we wanted to send to President Shields, but it didn't turn out real well as he had to take it from outside the car. We finally were able to leave the scene about 8:00. There is very little damage to the car. Nothing that can't wait till we get home to have fixed. And thankfully nothing happened to either of us.
Today we tried to see our friend Donna, but there is still a flu outbreak at the Nursing Home. Bonnie talked to her on the phone tonight and we are allowed to visit if we wear masks. We'll go see her tomorrow.
Also went to the Church today and took down the Christmas decorations. Bonnie put the Christmas decorations away in the apartment also. Valentine things will be coming out shortly I believe. (He didn't notice they are already out!!)
In the morning we are taking Margaret Villneff shopping with us. She doesn't get out much as their car is broken down. Norm, her husband, walks to work and their neighbors help them out as necessary. We volunteered for tomorrow though.
The funeral for Sister Jakob is set for Tuesday. The viewing is at 11:00, the service at 12:00, and a meal to follow at the Church. It is so sad to have lost such a dear friend. I hope Karl is able is cope okay. The gospel will help him do so.
Time for bed. Hope everyone has a great weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I enjoyed staying at the Jakob's. We slept on the couches in their family room. The three foster daughters are good most of the time and I had an "angel" come Thursday night to help me. A twelve-year-old girl who is also a foster child lives close by to the Jakob's. She called me and offered to help for the evening, while Bob reffed games at the HS in New Liskeard. She was patient and kind and helped two of the girls fold and straighten the clothes in their small dressers. We had some homemade soup for dinner and soon after the girls got ready for bed. She helped with all of it.
The night we slid off the road I counted at least 12 people who offered to help us. If the car had quit running I would have gladly let them--it was a cold night and we had to wait over an hour for help to arrive. The Lord truly blessed us.
And I ache for Sister Jakob. She was my first friend in the Branch. I miss her so much!!
The Valentine things will stay out until we leave in about 6 1/2 weeks. The time is flying by! There is much to do and many people to see before we leave!
Have a good night, everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
In the Squad Car
The Ditch We Were In
Out of the ditch, but not on the road yet!
Thursday 12 January 2017
January 12, 2017
Bob: Sorry we haven't written since Monday. Tuesday evening Sister Jakob had a fatal stroke and we have been with Karl helping out ever since. I just stopped at the apartment this evening to pick up some things and I'm headed back. We should be home some time tomorrow. Will have more details and will tell you about sliding off the road into the ditch.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tuesday 10 January 2017
January 9, 2016
Bonnie: I had a birthday card from the Relief Society to deliver today to one of our less-actives. It was well received. Bob ended up going to McDonald's to get her a burger and some fries. She is unable to go anywhere because of disabilities. Anyway, she does some puzzles called "fill-ins" that I didn't know about and want to try some day. We then went to visit one of our ladies who was on Meals On Wheels. She is now in the hospital because of a fall. We also took a detour to Tim Horton's because I was hungry. (Bob got some fries at McDonald's when he was there.) After this last visit we went home for a quick dinner, and then went to see Donna. Unfortunately, there has been an influenza epidemic there and we were not allowed to go in.
I got a calendar today so I can record all of the things we need to do before we go home. It's crazy how busy we will be, but it's all good.
May all of us be "crazy" busy doing good things!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add. Norm, who invited me to watch the Alabama - Washington game last weekend, came downstairs and watched the championship game with me in the Common Room. His team won with 1 second to go.
We have a big day planned tomorrow. We are going back to help Sister Benn again. It looks like this may be a weekly thing. And then tomorrow night we have Activity Night. We'll have to plan that tomorrow afternoon. This is all subject to change as the weatherman is calling for 15 - 20 cm, or 6 - 8 inches of snow tomorrow. So far it has not started to fall. (Revised forecast says 1 - 3 inches)
That's about it. Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
I got a calendar today so I can record all of the things we need to do before we go home. It's crazy how busy we will be, but it's all good.
May all of us be "crazy" busy doing good things!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Not much to add. Norm, who invited me to watch the Alabama - Washington game last weekend, came downstairs and watched the championship game with me in the Common Room. His team won with 1 second to go.
We have a big day planned tomorrow. We are going back to help Sister Benn again. It looks like this may be a weekly thing. And then tomorrow night we have Activity Night. We'll have to plan that tomorrow afternoon. This is all subject to change as the weatherman is calling for 15 - 20 cm, or 6 - 8 inches of snow tomorrow. So far it has not started to fall. (Revised forecast says 1 - 3 inches)
That's about it. Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Sunday 8 January 2017
January 8, 2017
Bonnie: We've had a lovely Sabbath Day. The Elders and I went with the RS President to see two acquaintances of hers, possible potential investigators. Then, Bob and I went to visit our friends the Villneff's. His car is not working and Sister Villneff said he walked to the grocery store. We decided to try to find him to give him a ride home. We actually found him just as he was about to leave the store! We brought him home and had a good visit with the two of them.
Bob wanted to try a new recipe for roast beef today. He invited Brad over for dinner. I will let him tell about what happened. Brad stayed to talk for awhile and now it's getting late. The bed is calling!!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Let me tell you about the roast beef. Found a recipe on-line that said 'Super Easy'. Followed the directions to the letter. It was supposed to come out 'medium'. It was blood rare. It was so under-cooked in the middle I could barely cut it with our sharpest knife. We managed to cut off 5 pieces and then seared them in a skillet so we could eat them. The vegetables were supposed to cook for 45 minutes. We had them in for 1 hour and they were still not quite cooked enough. Does anyone reading this blog have a good recipe for roast beef?
While Bonnie, Sister Ng and the Elders visited the potentials I went with Brother and Sister Gunnell to take the Sacrament to Sister Huywan. When we got to the nursing home they were not allowing any visitors because of a flu outbreak.
Well it's time for bed. Going to try swimming in the morning. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bob wanted to try a new recipe for roast beef today. He invited Brad over for dinner. I will let him tell about what happened. Brad stayed to talk for awhile and now it's getting late. The bed is calling!!
I hope everyone had a wonderful Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Let me tell you about the roast beef. Found a recipe on-line that said 'Super Easy'. Followed the directions to the letter. It was supposed to come out 'medium'. It was blood rare. It was so under-cooked in the middle I could barely cut it with our sharpest knife. We managed to cut off 5 pieces and then seared them in a skillet so we could eat them. The vegetables were supposed to cook for 45 minutes. We had them in for 1 hour and they were still not quite cooked enough. Does anyone reading this blog have a good recipe for roast beef?
While Bonnie, Sister Ng and the Elders visited the potentials I went with Brother and Sister Gunnell to take the Sacrament to Sister Huywan. When we got to the nursing home they were not allowing any visitors because of a flu outbreak.
Well it's time for bed. Going to try swimming in the morning. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Saturday 7 January 2017
January 7, 2016
Bob: We went visit 3 potential investigators today. 2 were not home and the other one wants to talk to his wife first. He said he would call our friend Brad and let him know what he wants to do.
Went to Brad's for a fish dinner tonight. We brought the fries and gravy. We bought it at 'Granny's Chipper' which is just right down the street from Brad's home. The gravy is soooo good!!! We are pretty sure it is a beef gravy, but he adds some spices that make it really good.
Temperatures today weren't quite as cold as yesterday. Someone said it got down to -29 Celsius last night though. No new snow, but some flurries were coming down when we got home.
Hope your weekend has been going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Went to Brad's for a fish dinner tonight. We brought the fries and gravy. We bought it at 'Granny's Chipper' which is just right down the street from Brad's home. The gravy is soooo good!!! We are pretty sure it is a beef gravy, but he adds some spices that make it really good.
Temperatures today weren't quite as cold as yesterday. Someone said it got down to -29 Celsius last night though. No new snow, but some flurries were coming down when we got home.
Hope your weekend has been going well. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Friday 6 January 2017
January 6, 2016
Bob: In case you don't look at Facebook I had to post this story tonight:
I heard a story today that proves to me that God does have a sense of humor. It goes like this:
'And God promised men that good and obedient wives would be found in all corners of the world. Then He made the earth round...And he laughed and laughed and laughed.'
We attended the District Meeting with the Elders this morning. It was a Skyped meeting with the Elders from Quebec, Timmins and Sudbury. It was pretty interesting until the roll play. Don't care much for that.
This afternoon we visited Sister LaPointe. She just got back from a Christmas vacation trip to Chatham to visit with her family. She took the bus because she does not have a driver's license. She had to do an all night layover in Toronto going both directions. She tried to book a room in a hostel and had quite an experience going each direction. At least on the way down she got a room, but had to pay more than she expected. On the way back they wouldn't put her up as she didn't have a drivers' license. Ended up spending the night in the bus depot. She said the chair in the depot was softer than the bed in the hostel.
When we got up this morning the temperature was -11°. It warmed up to 1°. When we got home it was -9°. Present temperature is -16° and that is about as cold as it will get tonight. Looks like the high tomorrow will reach 12°.
Took the picture this morning looking eastward towards Quebec. The white 'field' is actually a frozen Lake Timiskaming. The land mass on the left is Dawson's Point, Ontario and it points to an island. The land mass barely visible between Dawson's Point and the island is Quebec.
That's about it for today. We send our love to all. Stay warm. Good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I enjoyed District Meeting today. It helps me to keep on track!
I am so thankful for a warm coat, mittens, scarf, and the ear muffs I got from a sister missionary going home. I'm also grateful for the extra warm boots that Roxanne gave me. Add to these things, thermal underwear and extra warm tights and that's how I am keeping warm. I count these blessings every time we go anywhere, especially the last few days.
I think Bob took a beautiful picture below.
May everyone stay warm, as I see that the temperatures are low in many places in the States!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
I heard a story today that proves to me that God does have a sense of humor. It goes like this:
'And God promised men that good and obedient wives would be found in all corners of the world. Then He made the earth round...And he laughed and laughed and laughed.'
We attended the District Meeting with the Elders this morning. It was a Skyped meeting with the Elders from Quebec, Timmins and Sudbury. It was pretty interesting until the roll play. Don't care much for that.
This afternoon we visited Sister LaPointe. She just got back from a Christmas vacation trip to Chatham to visit with her family. She took the bus because she does not have a driver's license. She had to do an all night layover in Toronto going both directions. She tried to book a room in a hostel and had quite an experience going each direction. At least on the way down she got a room, but had to pay more than she expected. On the way back they wouldn't put her up as she didn't have a drivers' license. Ended up spending the night in the bus depot. She said the chair in the depot was softer than the bed in the hostel.
When we got up this morning the temperature was -11°. It warmed up to 1°. When we got home it was -9°. Present temperature is -16° and that is about as cold as it will get tonight. Looks like the high tomorrow will reach 12°.
Took the picture this morning looking eastward towards Quebec. The white 'field' is actually a frozen Lake Timiskaming. The land mass on the left is Dawson's Point, Ontario and it points to an island. The land mass barely visible between Dawson's Point and the island is Quebec.
That's about it for today. We send our love to all. Stay warm. Good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I enjoyed District Meeting today. It helps me to keep on track!
I am so thankful for a warm coat, mittens, scarf, and the ear muffs I got from a sister missionary going home. I'm also grateful for the extra warm boots that Roxanne gave me. Add to these things, thermal underwear and extra warm tights and that's how I am keeping warm. I count these blessings every time we go anywhere, especially the last few days.
I think Bob took a beautiful picture below.
May everyone stay warm, as I see that the temperatures are low in many places in the States!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Frozen Lake Timiskaming
Thursday 5 January 2017
January 5, 2017
Bob: No new snow for at least today. Tomorrow - maybe different. We'll see. The temperature did plummet today though. When we got home the car temperature said -2° F.
Took the young Elders to lunch today. Then we went north towards Englehart. Stopped to see a less-active who is a big-time farmer, but he wasn't home. Then we stopped in to see a couple in Englehart who are referrals from President Jakob. Had a good visit with them. Then we hustled back to North Cobalt to have dessert at Brad's house with him and the Elders. Bonnie and I were both too full to eat dinner with them.
That's about it for tonight. Hope everyone had a warm, safe day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have anything to add, just that we have several non-member acquaintances to follow up on now. Tonight Brad gave us some cranberry juice to give to the couple that let us pick the cranberries on their land last Monday. We hope to give them a first discussion when we deliver it. We have the mother of one of the Quebec saints, who thankfully speaks English, that we want to see tomorrow. And we have the Field's that we saw tonight. It's exciting to have these potential investigators!
Tomorrow we will be participating in District meeting at 10:30, then doing the shopping. The parking lot behind our apartment will be cleaned off tomorrow and no cars are allowed on it for a couple of hours. In the afternoon we hope to see Roxanne and one other potential investigator. It will be a good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Took the young Elders to lunch today. Then we went north towards Englehart. Stopped to see a less-active who is a big-time farmer, but he wasn't home. Then we stopped in to see a couple in Englehart who are referrals from President Jakob. Had a good visit with them. Then we hustled back to North Cobalt to have dessert at Brad's house with him and the Elders. Bonnie and I were both too full to eat dinner with them.
That's about it for tonight. Hope everyone had a warm, safe day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: I don't have anything to add, just that we have several non-member acquaintances to follow up on now. Tonight Brad gave us some cranberry juice to give to the couple that let us pick the cranberries on their land last Monday. We hope to give them a first discussion when we deliver it. We have the mother of one of the Quebec saints, who thankfully speaks English, that we want to see tomorrow. And we have the Field's that we saw tonight. It's exciting to have these potential investigators!
Tomorrow we will be participating in District meeting at 10:30, then doing the shopping. The parking lot behind our apartment will be cleaned off tomorrow and no cars are allowed on it for a couple of hours. In the afternoon we hope to see Roxanne and one other potential investigator. It will be a good day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Nativity scene of the Catholic Church next to our apartment
Catholic Church with snow falling
Wednesday 4 January 2017
January 4, 2017
Bonnie: We've had a rather uneventful day. I got my hair cut by one of the less-actives in our Branch. When we got home we decided to go to "Tea", with our bottles of water and some leftover Christmas candy. It was enjoyable talking to some of the other Seniors in our building. Part way through, Bob got a call from one of our Branch members who was stuck in the snow a few blocks away! He jumped up and went to help her. Luckily, it didn't take too much time or effort.
The snow has fallen steadily for over 24 hours. The main roads are clear, but not the side streets. Bob worked outside shoveling the parking lot behind our apartment for at least an hour this morning.
Lake Temiskaming is frozen over and has a thick layer of snow on it. We hope to get a picture of it soon to put on the blog. It amazes me that a lake as big and deep as this is can have so much ice on it during the winter. As soon as it is thick enough, there will be lots of fishing huts on it for ice fishing.
Brrrrrrr! May we all be warm and snug in our beds tonight!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: While Bonnie was getting her hair cut I tried contacting 2 potential investigators, but did not get an answer from either one. Left one message and the other phone just rang and rang. Will have to try again tomorrow.
It snowed between 6 and 8 inches over night and very lightly most of the day. I don't think there was much accumulation after 11:00 this morning.
The lady I helped who was stuck in the snow was trying to back up too quickly. She had spun all the snow off the ice and was sitting on ice. She was trying to back up a very slight embankment. I had her pull forward off the ice about 5 feet. Then I told her to back up slowly and not give it too much gas. As she did so I shoved the front end and the car backed up into the cleared lane. Then she was off.
Talked to our Medicare Supplement insurance man in Utah tonight. We signed applications for new plans and emailed them to him. However, I don't expect this to go smoothly. They will be looking for our Medicare coverage which at the present time does not exist. That is to start March 1st, the same as the Supplement so they will never find current proof of Medicare Coverage Part B. We'll see how this all works out.
Also, we went to the library today to return Season 9 of the Murdoch Mysteries. Season 10 is now in progress on TV. I found a site on the internet that has the current season on file. We viewed the first show tonight. It is a little out of sync, but at least we'll catch up with the current season.
After we are released from our mission, I'm planning on attending the boy's basketball tournament in Charleston, WV before going to meet Bonnie at Lori's in Florida. My brother Eddie's son-in-law, Bobby Ueltschy, will be there with his two boys. He has a room reserved for Bonnie and I at the Microtel. I have been checking prices on line for months and did not like what I was seeing. So today I called the Red Roof Inn and asked about a room there for 5 days. It is 4.8 miles further away from the basketball venue and does not offer a breakfast. The charge for the room is less than half of what the Microtel is charging for the room. I verified that by calling the Microtel to get their price. Looks like we will end up canceling the Microtel.
That's about it except for Bonnie's attire. She is quite cozy tonight wearing thick socks, long johns, a sweatshirt and a comforter wrapped around her. The thermostat is set on 78!! She was standing in front of the warm air duct enjoying the air blowing on her. I am wearing a t-shirt and a pair of light weight leisure pants.
That's about it. Hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
The snow has fallen steadily for over 24 hours. The main roads are clear, but not the side streets. Bob worked outside shoveling the parking lot behind our apartment for at least an hour this morning.
Lake Temiskaming is frozen over and has a thick layer of snow on it. We hope to get a picture of it soon to put on the blog. It amazes me that a lake as big and deep as this is can have so much ice on it during the winter. As soon as it is thick enough, there will be lots of fishing huts on it for ice fishing.
Brrrrrrr! May we all be warm and snug in our beds tonight!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: While Bonnie was getting her hair cut I tried contacting 2 potential investigators, but did not get an answer from either one. Left one message and the other phone just rang and rang. Will have to try again tomorrow.
It snowed between 6 and 8 inches over night and very lightly most of the day. I don't think there was much accumulation after 11:00 this morning.
The lady I helped who was stuck in the snow was trying to back up too quickly. She had spun all the snow off the ice and was sitting on ice. She was trying to back up a very slight embankment. I had her pull forward off the ice about 5 feet. Then I told her to back up slowly and not give it too much gas. As she did so I shoved the front end and the car backed up into the cleared lane. Then she was off.
Talked to our Medicare Supplement insurance man in Utah tonight. We signed applications for new plans and emailed them to him. However, I don't expect this to go smoothly. They will be looking for our Medicare coverage which at the present time does not exist. That is to start March 1st, the same as the Supplement so they will never find current proof of Medicare Coverage Part B. We'll see how this all works out.
Also, we went to the library today to return Season 9 of the Murdoch Mysteries. Season 10 is now in progress on TV. I found a site on the internet that has the current season on file. We viewed the first show tonight. It is a little out of sync, but at least we'll catch up with the current season.
After we are released from our mission, I'm planning on attending the boy's basketball tournament in Charleston, WV before going to meet Bonnie at Lori's in Florida. My brother Eddie's son-in-law, Bobby Ueltschy, will be there with his two boys. He has a room reserved for Bonnie and I at the Microtel. I have been checking prices on line for months and did not like what I was seeing. So today I called the Red Roof Inn and asked about a room there for 5 days. It is 4.8 miles further away from the basketball venue and does not offer a breakfast. The charge for the room is less than half of what the Microtel is charging for the room. I verified that by calling the Microtel to get their price. Looks like we will end up canceling the Microtel.
That's about it except for Bonnie's attire. She is quite cozy tonight wearing thick socks, long johns, a sweatshirt and a comforter wrapped around her. The thermostat is set on 78!! She was standing in front of the warm air duct enjoying the air blowing on her. I am wearing a t-shirt and a pair of light weight leisure pants.
That's about it. Hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Tuesday 3 January 2017
January 3, 2017
Bonnie: Today we spent much of the day helping Sister Benn in her consignment shop. She always has plenty for us to do. Today Bob emptied at least two large containers of clothing. He put them on the hangers and I then hung them in the right place. Sister Benn receives more clothing every day. I don't know how she keeps it up. She is running out of room, too. After that we rearranged some clothing by size. It was all mixed up. I hope she is able to keep up the pace required to make her shop a success. We then did some errands and had dinner. After dinner, we visited Donna Craig again to deliver the ice cream she wanted. Then, she had to share it with us, of course!! We also wanted to take a picture of the lake. It is frozen completely over.. But, that will have to wait until there is more sunshine. It was too overcast today.
It's time to quit. May everyone have a wonderful day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie said it was overcast. I'm not sure that is what it was. We stopped at the post office to drop off two letters and it was closed. The sign on the door said 'Closed Due to Air Quality'!! Whatever was in the air you couldn't see but halfway across the lake, if that far. The lake has frozen over and we have seen two men near the edge who were measuring the thickness of the ice, I believe. I'll try to get a picture of it tomorrow because it is presently devoid of fishing huts and humans. But once the ice gets thick enough there'll be huts, people, cars, trucks, snowmobiles and skidoos, etc, on the lake.
Well I think I'll close for now. Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
It's time to quit. May everyone have a wonderful day tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Bonnie said it was overcast. I'm not sure that is what it was. We stopped at the post office to drop off two letters and it was closed. The sign on the door said 'Closed Due to Air Quality'!! Whatever was in the air you couldn't see but halfway across the lake, if that far. The lake has frozen over and we have seen two men near the edge who were measuring the thickness of the ice, I believe. I'll try to get a picture of it tomorrow because it is presently devoid of fishing huts and humans. But once the ice gets thick enough there'll be huts, people, cars, trucks, snowmobiles and skidoos, etc, on the lake.
Well I think I'll close for now. Hope your day was great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Monday 2 January 2017
January 2, 2016
Bonnie: It's been a very good day here in the "near" north. We learned yesterday that here we are not considered the "real" north because we are not past a certain parallel (I can't remember which one). Sister Margetson has lived in the "real" north and has seen a little place temporarily shut down because there were so many polar bears coming into town! I shudder to think of winters that are colder than this, although I understand that it will get colder here. How grateful I am for the warm clothes I have!
We went cranberry picking with Brad to day and in the process met two of his extended relatives. The second man lives on some family-owned property by himself in a huge farmhouse. He has been a widower for about five years. Apparently he is an avid gardener. He owns lots of goldfish that he keeps in his basement during the winter. Then, when it's warm enough, the fish are put in a waterfall in his garden. Anyway, he asked us about the church today. We had a delightful conversation with him, and even though he told us he doesn't want to join another church, he will let us come back and talk to him some more.
After dinner, we went to see our friend Donna in the nursing home. It's always an experience talking to Donna! She is remembering more and more of her past history. I will be compiling what she has told me as soon as I have time. We will certainly miss her when we leave.
We hope all of our readers are enjoying the new year.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Picking the 'high bush cranberries' wasn't so bad. The temperature was around 30 degrees and we didn't have to venture off the trail into the woods. We did have one problem though. Brad has a Toyota Highlander and he pulled it down onto the trail so that we could warm ourselves in it if we wanted to. When he went to back out to the main road he couldn't quite make it as the tires began to spin. He tried about 3 times, but he was too close to the bushes on the passenger side and he bumped into a small tree that stopped him. No worry though as there wasn't any damage. I suggested he move back down the trail and turn around. Then he could get a little momentum and possibly get out. He said he would try it one more time before doing that. This time he went closer to the driver's side of the road and slid off the road up against some trees. In the process he tore off the driver's side mirror and scratched up both doors. He finally walked down to the house we had visited and had his friend pull him out with his truck. It took a few tries but he finally got out.
Hope everyone had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
We went cranberry picking with Brad to day and in the process met two of his extended relatives. The second man lives on some family-owned property by himself in a huge farmhouse. He has been a widower for about five years. Apparently he is an avid gardener. He owns lots of goldfish that he keeps in his basement during the winter. Then, when it's warm enough, the fish are put in a waterfall in his garden. Anyway, he asked us about the church today. We had a delightful conversation with him, and even though he told us he doesn't want to join another church, he will let us come back and talk to him some more.
After dinner, we went to see our friend Donna in the nursing home. It's always an experience talking to Donna! She is remembering more and more of her past history. I will be compiling what she has told me as soon as I have time. We will certainly miss her when we leave.
We hope all of our readers are enjoying the new year.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Bob: Picking the 'high bush cranberries' wasn't so bad. The temperature was around 30 degrees and we didn't have to venture off the trail into the woods. We did have one problem though. Brad has a Toyota Highlander and he pulled it down onto the trail so that we could warm ourselves in it if we wanted to. When he went to back out to the main road he couldn't quite make it as the tires began to spin. He tried about 3 times, but he was too close to the bushes on the passenger side and he bumped into a small tree that stopped him. No worry though as there wasn't any damage. I suggested he move back down the trail and turn around. Then he could get a little momentum and possibly get out. He said he would try it one more time before doing that. This time he went closer to the driver's side of the road and slid off the road up against some trees. In the process he tore off the driver's side mirror and scratched up both doors. He finally walked down to the house we had visited and had his friend pull him out with his truck. It took a few tries but he finally got out.
Hope everyone had a wonderful day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Picking 'High Bush Cranberries'
Filling the pail with berries
Sunday 1 January 2017
January 1, 2017
Bob: Cannot believe it is 2017. I remember when most everyone thought Jan 1, 2000 would be the start of world wide problems. People were in a panic that computers would not know what to do going from 1999 to 2000. Millions were spent on preparations for all sorts of anticipated disasters.
Got home late last night and when Bonnie went to bed I forgot about the blog. We went to a New Years Eve party at the Branch. At 10:00 we set the clock up to 12:00 and welcomed in the new year. We started the evening at 8:00 and played games that Jakob's 3 children could participate in, Pictionary and 'Do You Love Your Neighbor?' At 9:00 I fired up our waffle maker and made Belgium waffles for everyone. We had berries, whipping cream, maple syrup, butter and Nutella for toppings. Every one enjoyed them.
It snowed very lightly all day yesterday and just a little today. I think I cleaned the car off 3 times yesterday and Brother Cambridge cleaned it off after the party while I was helping to clean up and pack up things.
Yesterday I went to the 'Common Room' to see if the Alabama/Washington game was on. It was not. Norm, who lives here, stuck his head in the room and told me not to forget that 2 important US football games were on today. I told him the games weren't on the cable. He came in and tried to find them, but couldn't. He said he had to do something outside but he would be back shortly. When he came back he said, "Come with me". He took me to his apartment where we watched the Alabama game and the Junior Hockey game between Canada and the USA. He was rooting for Washington and Canada. Both lost. I left after the game, but he was excited to watch Ohio State. He really likes them. As you know they got shutout. Don't know if he will ask me to come see the National Championship on January 9th or not!!
At church there was a sparse crowd today. There were 23 for Sacrament and 2 of them left as soon as the Sacrament was passed. After the meetings, while Bonnie was in the weekly Relief Society Meeting I went with the Elders to take the Sacrament to Sister Huywan.
I'll let Bonnie tell you about the rest of her day.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Happy New Year, everyone! I pray for a great year ahead.
Today my Relief Society lesson went well even though there were only 5 sisters there, plus me. When Bob and I both got home after church we decided to take some potatoes to Sister Margetson. Bob accidentally bought 50 pounds instead of 10 pounds the other day, so we had plenty to share. While we were chatting with her, Rob came in and talked to us as well. He is her border and is not a member of the church. Ann gave us mince pies to eat. They are the size of a butter tart, and very delicious. And she also told us about Christmas crackers. This is a British tradition. The cracker is about 10" long and is round with a place to pull on each end. Two people pull it apart, and inside there is a toy and some candy and a little saying. She wants me to look for them so we can take them home with us for next Christmas! We'll see about that. I doubt there are any left. Then, after dinner tonight I went to talk to Lois, an elderly lady to whom we gave a Book of Mormon. She had lots of questions, and is so enjoyable to talk with. We probably spent an hour talking about religion. I was able to share Moroni 10:4-5 and tell her my experience gaining my testimony of the Book of Mormon. She wants me to get a large print copy and she will pay for it! As the former manager of a book store she knows that books don't come cheap these days. Anyway, our beliefs don't quite match up, but we do have a lot in common. And, I think she enjoys the company.
It's getting late and I need to go to bed earlier than I did last night so I will sign off.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
Got home late last night and when Bonnie went to bed I forgot about the blog. We went to a New Years Eve party at the Branch. At 10:00 we set the clock up to 12:00 and welcomed in the new year. We started the evening at 8:00 and played games that Jakob's 3 children could participate in, Pictionary and 'Do You Love Your Neighbor?' At 9:00 I fired up our waffle maker and made Belgium waffles for everyone. We had berries, whipping cream, maple syrup, butter and Nutella for toppings. Every one enjoyed them.
It snowed very lightly all day yesterday and just a little today. I think I cleaned the car off 3 times yesterday and Brother Cambridge cleaned it off after the party while I was helping to clean up and pack up things.
Yesterday I went to the 'Common Room' to see if the Alabama/Washington game was on. It was not. Norm, who lives here, stuck his head in the room and told me not to forget that 2 important US football games were on today. I told him the games weren't on the cable. He came in and tried to find them, but couldn't. He said he had to do something outside but he would be back shortly. When he came back he said, "Come with me". He took me to his apartment where we watched the Alabama game and the Junior Hockey game between Canada and the USA. He was rooting for Washington and Canada. Both lost. I left after the game, but he was excited to watch Ohio State. He really likes them. As you know they got shutout. Don't know if he will ask me to come see the National Championship on January 9th or not!!
At church there was a sparse crowd today. There were 23 for Sacrament and 2 of them left as soon as the Sacrament was passed. After the meetings, while Bonnie was in the weekly Relief Society Meeting I went with the Elders to take the Sacrament to Sister Huywan.
I'll let Bonnie tell you about the rest of her day.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob
Bonnie: Happy New Year, everyone! I pray for a great year ahead.
Today my Relief Society lesson went well even though there were only 5 sisters there, plus me. When Bob and I both got home after church we decided to take some potatoes to Sister Margetson. Bob accidentally bought 50 pounds instead of 10 pounds the other day, so we had plenty to share. While we were chatting with her, Rob came in and talked to us as well. He is her border and is not a member of the church. Ann gave us mince pies to eat. They are the size of a butter tart, and very delicious. And she also told us about Christmas crackers. This is a British tradition. The cracker is about 10" long and is round with a place to pull on each end. Two people pull it apart, and inside there is a toy and some candy and a little saying. She wants me to look for them so we can take them home with us for next Christmas! We'll see about that. I doubt there are any left. Then, after dinner tonight I went to talk to Lois, an elderly lady to whom we gave a Book of Mormon. She had lots of questions, and is so enjoyable to talk with. We probably spent an hour talking about religion. I was able to share Moroni 10:4-5 and tell her my experience gaining my testimony of the Book of Mormon. She wants me to get a large print copy and she will pay for it! As the former manager of a book store she knows that books don't come cheap these days. Anyway, our beliefs don't quite match up, but we do have a lot in common. And, I think she enjoys the company.
It's getting late and I need to go to bed earlier than I did last night so I will sign off.
Love, Mom/Bonnie
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