Thursday, 30 June 2016

June 30, 2016

Bob: This is from our tablet so it probably won't be too much. We have moved out of our apartment completely now. We are staying in the Erickson's apartment because they are visiting family this weekend.
We got up early so we would have time to clean and then go to the Temple as a YSA was taking out her own endowment at 1:30. We misjudged how long it would take to clean so we were in a hurry when it came time to leave for the Temple. It was a good session, but I must admit I don't remember parts of it.
Afterwards the Budgetts, Youngbergs and us went to East Side Marios, a favorite site of the YSAs. Then we got ice cream at the Marbleslab Creamery. That was especially good.
About 9 we remembered we have to bring a dessert for the Ludlows. They're having a barbecue for the Seniors tomorrow evening because it is Canada Day. Canada is 149 years old tomorrow.
We'll I'm getting tired of typing with one finger. Hope your day has been great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob.

Bonnie: The temple session was very special today. I am so glad we went!! This young woman had lots of support from the adults and other YSAs.  In fact, one of the young men in our ward conducted the session. Great!
It seems very weird to be in someone else's apartment, but I guess I will get used to it. Sleeping on the floor the last two nights wasn't too bad--the mattresses were comfortable.  I didn't sleep well either night,  though, concerned about our move. It's been OK so far. And tomorrow is Canada Day. It should be quiet at the office because everything is closed. Sister Wolfley and I will fill some MLC orders and do the Dailey Dose supplies as well probably.
I imagine most of you are planning Fourth of July celebrations on Monday. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.
We'll Bob is in bed already! He made lots of trips up and down today and I think his knees are really bothering him. I know he is very tired.
Have a great day tomorrow!
Love,  Mom/Bonnie

June 30, 2016

Bob: This is from our tablet so it probably won't be too much. We have moved out of our apartment completely now. We are staying in the Erickson's apartment because they are visiting family this weekend.
We got up early so we would have time to clean and then go to the Temple as a YSA was taking out her own endowment at 1:30. We misjudged how long it would take to clean so we were in a hurry when it came time to leave for the Temple. It was a good session, but I must admit I don't remember parts of it.
Afterwards the Budgetts, Youngbergs and us went to East Side Marios, a favorite site of the YSAs. Then we got ice cream at the Marbleslab Creamery. That was especially good.
About 9 we remembered we have to bring a dessert for the Ludlows. They're having a barbecue for the Seniors tomorrow evening because it is Canada Day. Canada is 149 years old tomorrow.
We'll I'm getting tired of typing with one finger. Hope your day has been great. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob.

Bonnie: The temple session was very special today. I am so glad we went!! This young woman had lots of support from the adults and other YSAs.  In fact, one of the young men in our ward conducted the session. Great!
It seems very weird to be in someone else's apartment, but I guess I will get used to it. Sleeping on the floor the last two nights wasn't too bad--the mattresses were comfortable.  I didn't sleep well either night,  though, concerned about our move. It's been OK so far. And tomorrow is Canada Day. It should be quiet at the office because everything is closed. Sister Wolfley and I will fill some MLC orders and do the Dailey Dose supplies as well probably.
I imagine most of you are planning Fourth of July celebrations on Monday. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.
We'll Bob is in bed already! He made lots of trips up and down today and I think his knees are really bothering him. I know he is very tired.
Have a great day tomorrow!
Love,  Mom/Bonnie

Wednesday, 29 June 2016

June 29, 2016

Bob: First I would like to say that this may be the last post for a few days. We are moving out of this apartment in the morning and I am not sure what, if any, internet we will have for a few days. We will take off for Temiskaming between 5 and 6 on Tuesday next week. So we will get there late and I'm not sure when the internet will be installed there. So if we are missing for a day or days don't be alarmed. We'll eventually get this up and running again.
We said good-bye to President and Sister Clayton today. They came in, introduced the Shields, spoke to each couple briefly and walked out the door. Very sad to see them go, but the Shields are excited and ready to go to work. We had a very long staff meeting with them today answering what questions we could for them and letting them know what we are doing to keep things moving. It will be a very busy week for them with transfers, MLC and just being new.
We are cleaning up somewhat tonight and will move everything upstairs tomorrow to the Erickson's apartment. Then on Sunday we will move everything to the Finnigan's for a couple days before heading north. It will be very busy.
I helped Elder Wolfley with the phone/text report again today. I think with just a little practice he will catch on to it okay. After a while working on it I could tell he was getting anxious about it, so we quit. Will give it one final try on Friday.
I hope everyone had a great day and that all is well with each of you. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: I don't have much to add except that I am tired after cleaning the bathroom really well, including the old tile floor, plus the refrigerator, and under both the 'frig and the oven. Tomorrow I will do the floors (the kitchen floor will have to be mopped as well) and the bathroom sink, and also do our last wash. We have the honor of attending a temple session for one of our YSAs at 1:30 also tomorrow. That will be wonderful. I can't wait for that!
Today at the office was sad for us as we said good-bye to the Clayton's. We love them very much. It has been a great experience to work with them both. The Shield's will also be wonderful to work with, I think. I know they will let the senior couples go to see their grand-kids,and this makes me excited!! We will have two trips, one in September and one in the middle of  December where we will be seeing grandchildren. Thank you. Lord!
Well, there is much to do still tonight, so I am done for now. Good-night, everyone, until we can write again. We love you all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Tuesday, 28 June 2016

June 28, 2016

Bob: Got back about 8:00 from Temiskaming. I am in no hurry to drive another moving van anytime soon. No cruise control, radio didn't work, max speed of 67 mph, a diesel engine that drank diesel fuel, and it's so loud you have to scream for two people to talk. But we made it up and back safely. I left my charging adapter in the truck. Will try to get it back in the morning.
Don't have pictures of the new apartment yet, but I am sure we'll be satisfied with it. Putting some pictures below of our empty apartment here in Brampton. Notice the new bedroom and computer facilities.
Quite tired so I'll give this to Bonnie. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob


Converted dining room

Office

Master Bedroom

Living room

Spare bedroom

Newly furnished kitchen area

Bonnie:  It was quite a trip. When we got there, there were a total of 7 people from the  Branch, plus the two missionaries to help us unload! What a welcome, pleasant surprise. We took the missionaries out to eat after everything was moved in. I think I will like our apartment once we get settled. There are just a few questions we need to figure out. We will put pictures on the blog when we are done.
It was nice to be able to borrow two chairs from the storage unit to help us out here in the apartment today and tomorrow. They are in the "newly furnished" kitchen area.
Tomorrow will be a big day. We will meet the Shields and have a luncheon. The hard part will be saying good-bye to Clayton's. We will not see them again after tomorrow. They won't be staying for lunch. Well, they say change is good, although hard sometimes. I think that's very ---------true.
Have a nice night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Sunday, 26 June 2016

June 26, 2016

Bob: Well it has been an interesting day. We went to another YSA baptism this morning. It took more than one attempt to completely immerse him, but it finally happened. Mandeep was baptized this morning. It was a sweet baptism with lots of support from the YSAs.
We had Ward Conference today. Bishop Finnigan and Stake President Gooby were the only speakers, and it was excellent. President Gooby told them a joke that he got out of the Friend. He asked them how a chicken sitting on the fence is like a coin? The answer: there is a head on one side and a tail on the other side!! Hardly anyone laughed at first, but I don't think it was from lack of understanding. He went on to give some very good examples and some words of counsel from David Burton who used to be Presiding Bishop. Eventually you have to come off the fence on one side or the other, and the time to do that is RIGHT NOW, AND ON THE LORD'S SIDE. Very effective talk.
Tonight we had FHE with all the Seniors. It was quite nice and we answered several questions about Temiskaming. We should have several people to help in the morning.
Just got a call from the Brampton Z/L that they can't be here till 9:00, but they are sending 3 other companionships here at 8:00 to start taking things down. Sounds good!!
By the way, thanks for comments and likes on Evan's Facebook post.
Well I've got to get some sleep. Love to all and good night brothers.
One final thought. I don't think we will have internet tomorrow so I am leaving the computer here. Will talk to you Tuesday night hopefully.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  Another wonderful  Sabbath Day. One of the most interesting parts of today was the "no-practice choir" that sang at ward conference. Bob says we sounded very good. I think we did ok, too. There must have been about 60 YSAs plus some advisors in the choir. We sang "Lead Kindly Light" which is one of the stake president's favorite songs. Also, another sister advisor gave us a treat bag to take with us tomorrow. It's got chips for Bob and sweet and salty brownies for me! Then, Sister De Dios, who helped me yesterday pack up the kitchen, gave us sheets and towels for the two nights we will have in this apartment without any furniture. She also included a little table which will help lots. So sweet of her to do this for us. Evan, who posted our picture on facebook, is now the executive secretary. He is a great young man. I have loved working with him.
We are about all packed up. Bob is working on the computer right now. I hope it will all work out tomorrow. We should have plenty of help. Wish us luck, everyone, and have a great Monday!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Saturday, 25 June 2016

June 25, 2016

Bob: Been a tiring day. We had to do some running around making arrangements for leaving Monday plus a lot of packing, etc. This evening Elder and Sister Budgett had us up for swiss steak dinner. Then the Youngberg's and Erickson's showed up and we watched "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2". I would say this movie is not recommended for the younger generation. However, we seniors thoroughly enjoyed it. And we learned about the tremendous health benefits of Windex!!
Didn't sleep in enough this morning and I haven't had a nap. Thus my eyes are getting very heavy. I hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  It was a great way to end the evening with our good friends. It's a great movie, in my opinion, although I think Bob is right. The younger generation would not appreciate the humor! 
My visiting teacher helped me pack up my kitchen today, at least most of it. We are now really "camping". We  have no dressers or tables except for the little one in the kitchen. We are using the chairs to the dining room table to put stuff on. We will be using paper plates and utensils and cups here on out, too. There is still plenty of food in the refrigerator and freezer for Tuesday and Wednesday night. Thursday we have to be out of the apartment by 1:00. The closets are mostly empty except for a few jackets and Bob's long heavy overcoat. I will clean the cupboards and shelves when we get back from Temiskaming. The only other big job will be the bath tub. It could use a good cleaning. 
Tomorrow will be another baptism, so it will be an early Sabbath for us. And it's Ward Conference, so I'm sure it will be great!
Lots of Love, Mom/Bonnie

Friday, 24 June 2016

June 24, 2016

Bob: Today has been a good day. Started off by moving the remaining items we have for Wolfley's to their apartment. Brampton Z/L and Elder Forsyth showed up with Elder Budgett to help move everything. The Elders left and I went to the office. Elder Budgett went to Home Depot and got the necessary hardware so he could put Wolfley's dining table together. He finished that and tightened up some wobbly chairs also. He was planning on coming down to our apartment Monday and taking our table apart, but I did it tonight. I am missing a long screw so I'll pick it up tomorrow at Home Depot.
This afternoon the Z/L came back with Elder Forsyth and we went to the storage hut and unloaded the items we removed from Wolfley's apartment. Then we loaded everything from the hut that we are taking to Temiskaming. I forgot to get 2 twin bed frames, so I'll go back and get them tomorrow as well as some tape. Parked the truck at the Mission Home so we don't have to drive to the Mission Office Monday morning and pick it up. Elders Budgett and Youngberg are going to go pick it up Monday morning and we'll take everything out of the trailer and put it in the cargo truck we have rented. I am hoping to get everything packed so we get underway by 2 on Monday. That should put us there by 8 at the latest.
For dinner tonight the Erickson's, Cannon's, Wolfley's and us met the Clayton's at RDs for dinner. We had a great time and said goodbyes. We'll see the Clayton's briefly on Wednesday, but not very long. They will drop off the Shields and introduce them and then leave. When the new Mission President arrives he immediately takes over without much review with the current President. President Shields will hit the ground running. They arrive Tuesday afternoon and as I said come to the office on Wednesday. Transfers start on Monday and MLC is Thursday. Then they will travel the entire mission to meet the missionaries. It will be non-stop at a hectic pace for them as they begin their three year turn as Mission President.
Well I need to say goodnight. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: Sister Clayton asked me tonight what are the most memorable moments thus far on my mission. I had to think for a minute but then told her that our experiences with the YSAs are very precious--especially when Ekam put her arm around me and gave me a hug when I needed one at a FHE. Then, I would say the relationships with the missionaries--seeing them grow so much, especially the APs. They are like my children! And, oh, the teasing from Elder Forsyth! I'll never forget the sisters singing to us after making waffles one morning at MLC. It brings tears to my eyes every time I think about it. The Clayton's are absolutely wonderful people. I love them so much. It has been such a great experience. It's hard to put into words.
So, we are close to being packed up. I will have help tomorrow morning packing the kitchen stuff up. Then, it's just our clothes. I figure that I will need to be dressed up (in a skirt) about 6 days between now and the time we leave for Temiskaming the second and permanent time. It's a crazy schedule, really. And we might have time to see one or two other special places as well as try out Schwarma Queen and the nachos at Burrito Boys!
Have a wonderful evening and week-end, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Thursday, 23 June 2016

June 23, 2016

Bob: Work is going okay. Worked with Elder Wolfley on the phone/text report today. He is picking up things pretty well. I'm trying to write him lots of instructions and leave plenty of examples. Turning the phones and credit cards over to him tomorrow. He is now on Roger's list as an approved telephone contact. I'm sure he will have the main problem I had when I started. I didn't know where the next fire was going to start and just had to sit and wait till it was blazing. Now I can anticipate some things happening. He will have to learn that.
Had the A/P's, YSA Sister Missionaries and a returned missionary YSA over for dinner tonight. Bonnie had sour cream enchiladas. They were excellent!! She wanted to make guacamole and we couldn't find any store that carried the mix. Been buying it at Walmart, but no one, not even Fortinos had it. We made our own blend and it was delicious. Only downside of the evening was the dish washing. Will be glad to get to Temiskaming where an under the counter dishwasher awaits!!
Well, I have to get ready for bed. Moving our couch, night stand and kitchen roller cart plus a dining suit we picked up yesterday up to Wolfley's in the morning. I'll have sore knees again when that is finished. Love to all and good night brothers. Bonnie just finished going through all her papers so the night stand can be moved in the morning. She says good night and sends her love.
Dad/Bob



Sisters Cook, Paulsen, Martin, and Elders Forsyth, Carroll, Holt and Martin

Holt, Carroll, Forsyth, Cook and Paulsen

Holt, Carroll and Forsyth

Kat, Sisters Cook and Paulsen

Wednesday, 22 June 2016

June 22, 2016

Bob: Things are a little slow at work. Elder Wolfley is driving the boat!! I'll have time to go to the bank that's for sure. Another beautiful day weatherwise.
Stopped on the way to work this morning to pick up the 2014 Silverado at the Chevy garage. It was sent in for an oil change. After doing the oil change, changing 4 tires, an alignment and new front brake rotors the bill was over $1800. I'm glad I don't have to get my service done at that garage.
Elder Wolfley and I went to Sister Di Dios' house today and picked up a dining table and chairs, and a couple of night stands for the Temiskaming Elders. I thought we would take the dining set with us, but Sister Martin wants the set we have here. Elder and Sister Wolfley are taking the dining set just picked up and I'll move the one they are using to the storage shed where he can deal with it later!!
Got my last hair cut tonight from Dominique. She works just across the street in the mall and she said she has cut lots of hair for Mormons. One time she went somewhere and gave several Elders haircuts, one right after another. She didn't think it was on Main Street, so that rules out the Mission Home. Not sure where she might have been.
Bonnie is in the kitchen working on the 'last supper' for the A/Ps. We can't find any guacamole mix at the store. She has me working online, but as usual, those recipes require things we don't have.
Time to hit the sack. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:   Yes, I have been working on the preparations for sour cream chicken enchiladas. It is frustrating not being able to get things here that I could get at home so easily. We will try one more place tomorrow on the way to work. We need to leave by 4:30 so I can get everything ready for the missionaries at 6 tomorrow. It should be a very good day.
The neat thing about Bob's experience with the barber is that he gave her a Restoration pamphlet. Apparently, she was quite thankful. Tonight I also got my hair cut by Sister Youngberg. I like the way she cuts it. I just wish she could give me a bit of color. The other lady that use to do my hair has upped her price to $80.00. I just can't afford that right now.
Slowly but surely we are getting more of our "give-aways" taken to good homes! I still have lots to give to Salvation Army, though. We will do that Saturday. It will be a challenge to be here without any furniture but we can do it for a few days. And there are a few pieces such as a small table and our green chest of drawers that will remain. Elder Wolfley will have to deal with those things, I guess.
May all of you have a wonderful night and an even better tomorrow!
Love,
Mom/Bonnie




Tuesday, 21 June 2016

June 21, 2016

Bonnie: The Lord loves me!! The issue with the Elder whose $6000 inheritance check was lost  is resolved!! The bank is issuing another check and the Mom will be meeting the Elder at his bank so he can deposit it. Mom is not a member of the church. This situation calls for extreme measures I guess. I talked to President  Clayton about it and he said that the mother and son should decide how to handle it. If it means they should meet at the bank this was ok with him. So, that is what will happen. This is a huge weight off of my shoulders. I am so grateful that this is resolved.
Today was a fun day, although I missed the meeting with the Clayton's. The day started with us picking up one of the YSAs who needed to see the Bishop this morning. We dropped off Bob at the office and then I took her to the Bishop's house. While she was with him, I talked with Sister Finnigan. She is a beautiful sister who loves the Lord. It was a great visit. After taking our YSA home, I headed for the office but was too late for the meeting. I was in time for our farewell lunch for Elder Forsyth, however. What a wonderful, very fun young man he is. Pictures follow. I wish we could do more for him!
So, tonight Laura came over to check out my table full of stuff we are not taking with us up north. She took quite a few things, which makes me so happy!
Tomorrow should be a rather slow day because it's Zone Conference and Cannon's and Erickson's will be away from the office. Sister Wolfley is doing great.
I hope everyone has had a great day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Today was a little slow in the beginning for me. I have let Elder Wolfley take over the desk. He is recording and paying the bills. This afternoon he worked on the credit cards. He did get those confused and in wrong folders, but I still do that occasionally. He will learn once I am gone and he has to straighten them out. We got them corrected today though.
I stayed over till about 7:30 writing up procedures on how to do some month end reports. I have had trouble with one ever since I started doing it. Tonight I finally figured out how to print it with just a few clicks of the mouse. This will make it much easier for him.
Gas has dropped to below $1/liter again. Paid 0.985 tonight. Hope it drops a little further to offset the cost of the north country gas!!
Well I'm calling it a day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob


Elder Forsyth and his going home cake!

Elders Holt, Forsyth, Carroll

Us with Elder Forsyth

Sister and Elder Wolfley

Elder Forsyth and the Cannons


Monday, 20 June 2016

June 20, 2016

Bob: Forgot to mention this last night. In my talk yesterday I thanked the Bishop for calling us to the YSA assignment. Also I thanked all the YSAs for the things they had taught me. Told them that I couldn't think of another Missionary assignment where Sister Martin and I could have received so many 'dating' classes. And that she and I felt confident that if anything happened to either one of us in the next few years that the other one would know everything we needed to know about dating again!! The YSAs liked that a lot I think.
Today wasn't too bad. I let Elder Wolfley take the lead and he seemed to do okay. I'll keep letting him take the lead the rest of the week and just make sure he doesn't get into any hot water. I stayed at work tonight until we left for FHE. I did all the Missionary charge-offs so that will save him about 2.5 hours tomorrow.
Well I'm getting ready for bed. Big day tomorrow as we are having Elder Forsyth's departure party. I think he will be surprised because we are having it so early. Hope everyone has had a wonderful day today. Good night. Love to all good night brothers. Bonnie sends her love.
Dad/Bob

Sunday, 19 June 2016

June 19, 2016

Bob: Church was very good today. Bonnie gave a very good talk on fathers and I talked to the YSAs about how things in their lives will be 40 years from now. Explained to them that they have only lived 2 - 3 decades, but we seniors have lived 6 - 7 decades and see that extra 40 years. Bishop told me he thought I gave them some good counsel. I hope some of them will try a little harder at some of the things they are doing right now. It will bless them years down the road.
Been cleaning up the desk and office area today. I think it is about ready to be packed away. It is amazing how many little items you pick up over time. Sometimes I feel like a pack rat!! I think if I don't have any immediate plans for something and haven't used it recently I will just pitch it. Can always start all over I guess.
Well I'm going to hit the sack. Want to get up and walk tomorrow morning. Haven't done that since Friday. Hope you enjoyed your weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob





Below is my card I got today from the Relief Society.


Bonnie: Happy Father's Day to all of the wonderful fathers we know. We hope you all had a special day. Our day turned out to be very good. Our talks had to be shortened a bit because the Sister RM took a little long. The YSAs really enjoyed Bob's talk. He talked directly to them about things they can't see 40 years from now. And he told them how much he enjoyed being in the ward, except for all the dating classes! They really enjoyed that. I talked about Fathers Day--Bob, my father and Heavenly  Father. I'm glad it's over. So many YSAs gave us hugs and talked to us afterwards. One even texted us how much he enjoyed it.
There were at least 10 YSAs who saw the  Bishop today. That is lots of running and fetching! But, I only have one more Sunday to do it. Again, I will miss it.
May everyone have a wonderful evening.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Saturday, 18 June 2016

June 18, 2016

Bonnie:  We just got back from our fabulous trip to see some of the sights related to the underground railroad. It was so neat to learn about the history of this.We started at Uncle Tom's Cabin, where the story was based (not Kentucky as is in the book). Then, we went to the First Baptist Church where John Brown, the white abolitionist, recruited people to help him with taking arms and ammunition from the US government at Harper's Ferry. We followed that with a trip to Buxton National Historical Site. This is where a school was started initially for black children, but was open to all children, no matter what ethnic background. People would leave the US and move to Canada to attend this school. We will include a picture of the rules for the children. The standards were very high, and this was in the middle 1800's. Our guide read something that 4th graders had to learn, and it would be high school level today. Very impressive! Our last stop was at an underground railroad site. This was quite the spiritual experience--our guide wrote a book called "The Road To Somewhere", and is a deeply religious Christian man. He asked Elder Youngberg to pray! I got the cutest picture of a little black boy and a little white boy holding each other that I will frame for our apartment. The way they captured the black children in Africa was by placing little pieces of red material on the ground. The children would be fascinated with the color and look for another piece, until they were captured by men whose job it was to put them on a ship with deplorable conditions. If they were still living after crossing the ocean, they were then sold as slaves. Anyway, it was such a great learning experience and I'm so glad we were able to do it.
Now, to spend a few more minutes on my talk for tomorrow!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: It was a long day. 12 of us rode to the sites in a 12 passenger van. Very crowded for us in the back row. Bonnie and I came home with the Cannon's to alleviate some of that crowdedness, but she about froze out. Elder/Sister Cannon like it cool in the car. Temperature was set on 64. Also we made 2 additional stops so Elder Cannon could get out and stretch his legs. He has restless leg syndrome.
The sites we visited were very interesting. It is estimated that 30 - 40 thousand slaves ran away to Canada to gain their freedom. As many if not more tried to run but did not make it. They were either caught and taken back, or they died trying to get away. They would hide in the day and travel by night. They had coded phrases that would make them aware of where to go, who would help, etc. But the people helping them were considered to be law breakers and were in danger also. I put some pictures below.
Hope you day has been as inspiring as ours.
Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Buxton School Rules

John Brown Recruitment Site
(He was captured and hung about 17 months later)

Sketch of Josiah Henson's Life
(His memoirs were instrumental  in the
completion of the book Uncle Tom's Cabin)



Friday, 17 June 2016

June 17, 2016

Bonnie:  We emptied out our storage room tonight. I can't believe how much stuff we have accumulated in one year of missionary service! We are giving much of it away, which includes giving the Wolfley's the storage shelves. The owners of the building want to repair a tile or two in the storage room on Monday so there won't be a problem with that, now.
Today was very warm outside and very pleasant inside. There were no urgent things to do and we were able to accomplish much. I just hope the supplies come in before transfers so that we have enough for MLC. It will be a crazy few days as we begin to prepare for it. The APs told us that they have asked for supplies by Wednesday at 3:00, which is fantastic. Of course, not all of the supply lists will be here on time, but we should have most of them.
We are retiring early tonight because of our tour of underground railroad sites tomorrow with the other Senior couples. I'm very excited about it. I want to take good notes. The big challenge will be fitting twelve Seniors into a passenger van. I figure it will be very tight quarters for those of us in the very back.
Have a wonderful week-end!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: And we carried the storage shelves up to the Wolfley's apartment. Wasn't too bad. Bonnie is right about the stuff we have accumulated. It is sitting everywhere in the apartment. I've rented an 18 foot truck for the move. Hope it will hold everything.
I think we will be packed a little tightly tomorrow too. Don't know what to do about it though. We'll see how it goes. Maybe ride back with the Cannons as they drove down tonight.
I'm just about through the training manual I wrote for Elder Wolfley. Had him working on organizing the month end report today. He didn't quite get it finished as we ran out of time, but I think he has the main idea.
Well, time for bed. Enjoy your weekend. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Thursday, 16 June 2016

June 16, 2016

Bob: Another great day at the office. It was a short day because we left at 4:15 to pick up a few things at Walmart on the way home. Unfortunately, we didn't leave Walmart till almost 6:00!!!! Personally, I don't like Walmart that much, but a few things turned into much hunting for some things. Plus, Sister Martin did her missionary duty by engaging a lady in a long conversation and giving her a pass along card. She took our phone number.
Got home and after dinner we did the usual Thursday night job of laundry. But now we're ready to go for the weekend. Saturday will be a long day as we are leaving at 7:00 to go view some of the historical sites related to the underground railroad (when the slaves were fleeing the US and coming to Canada for freedom.) The first stop is about 2 hours and 40 minutes away and we won't finish till about 6:00. We plan on stopping for dinner on the way home too.
Elder Wolfley seems to be doing okay with the training. I'm trying to go over as many things as I can at least once. Then I go over again some of the main things he will be doing all the time. If he gets those down he can in time figure the others out.
Well I have to get ready for bed. Hope everyone had a great day. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  I don't have much to add. Tonight I figured out a plan of what we will or should be doing between now and the time we leave. It gets a little complicated when you think that we have to be out of our apartment on the 30th of June, and we want to stay for the temple trip for the missionaries going home, which is July 5th. We may be staying at Erickson's apartment for a few days. They will probably be going with their kids to Massachusetts from the 30th to the 3rd so we may be able to stay there. Then, the night of the 3rd, 4th and 5th we may be able to stay with our Bishop. He has offered us a place for a few days. I hope this works out. If I can help Sister Wolfley be prepared for transfers and MLC I will feel much better about leaving. And then we will be meeting President and Sister Shields during this time, too. Wow, it will be crazy!
I hope everyone is enjoying beautiful summer weather as much as we are. It's a gorgeous time of year and especially beautiful here in Brampton, the City of Flowers!
Love, Mom/Bonnie



Wednesday, 15 June 2016

June 15, 2016

Bob: Another birthday has come and is almost gone. It has been a good day. Thank you to those that sent birthday wishes. It has been a quiet and relaxing day. Very much appreciated by an old codger like me.
I did have time to go on a short trip with Elder Wolfley today. We were gone about 3 hours while we took a few furniture items to the Sisters in Aurora. This kind of trip is relaxing as compared to a trip to empty out an apartment. Shouldn't have many more of these to worry about except our move later this month.
Tonight while I was working on my Sacrament Meeting talk for Sunday I received a happy birthday call and serenade from the Mission President, his wife and some others. A very big surprise. Bonnie liked it too.
Went to my favorite restaurant tonight and they were out of my favorite dish. Had to settle for a new and different meal there. It was pretty good and the dessert was delicious.
Well, I had better get to bed. This old man needs his rest to keep pace with his young and vivacious wife. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: We didn't do anything special like we did last year for Bob's birthday, mainly because I feel so overwhelmed with trying to train Sister Wolfley and getting ready to move, and because it was Zone  Conference today. The Erickson's and Cannon's were gone for most of the day. So, we celebrated by going to Bob's favorite place to eat: Wendy's. As he wrote, they were out of his favorite thing--the baked potatoes. I think he liked what he got, though. And we got two donuts at Tim Horton's for dessert.  I think the best of the day was getting the phone call from the Clayton's. It was so fun to hear them sing Happy Birthday to Bob.
We accomplished much today at the office and Sister Wolfley is doing well. I don't think we will have much to do tomorrow, in fact. It's been a good day and night!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Tuesday, 14 June 2016

June 14, 2016

Bonnie:  We left the office before 5:00 today! It was so nice to come home, have dinner and then go out to do a few errands. We were under no pressure as far as time goes. We picked up some Daily Dose posters at Staples, and then decided to look for more dishware that matches the dishes I will be using in Temiskaming. We went to Salvation Army and Value Village. So, tonight we will spend the rest of the evening working on our talks for Sunday. Because it's Father's Day we have a topic, at least! I think it's harder to give a talk without a topic than with one.
Today went well with Sister  Wolfley. She will be excellent. I  hope there will be enough to do, because Cannon's are now back. I'm afraid it will be hard for all three of us to be busy. The good thing is that I can go to the temple to do initiatories with Laura this week, I hope. And next week I will leave early to get my hair cut. I know the time will go fast. I want to make the most of it!
I hope all of you have had a great day today!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: It was good to leave early after last night. I'm taking some more furniture to Aurora tomorrow afternoon with Elder Wolfley. We should be back around 5 and I know the way for sure now!! He seems to be picking things up pretty quickly I think. I have written up quite a few of the tasks I perform. We go over them and talk about what we are doing before doing a new one. I asked him to review the write up of the tasks in the evening so that tomorrow I can just let him do the same tasks by himself. We have 8 days left so we have a lot of ground to cover.
It has been a relaxing evening. I am looking forward to a few more of these.
Better call it a night. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Monday, 13 June 2016

June 13, 2016

Bob: Got home after 10. Just before 7 Bonnie and I took a twin bed set to Aurora which is about an hour away. I thought I knew the way, but took a wrong turn. We didn't get there till about 8:20. Carried the box springs to the 4th floor. Bonnie and the Sisters carried the mattress and bed rails up. We set the bed up and left immediately. Got gas and stopped at Wendys on the way home. Dropped the truck off at the office and drove home. Quick and tiring trip after a full day at the office.
Had my first day of training with Elder Wolfley today. He should do okay. Bonnie was very impressed with Sister Wolfley. So the training should go pretty good I think.
First Mate is in bed and I am going now. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Sunday, 12 June 2016

June 12, 2016

Bonnie:  Another wonderful Sabbath Day, although a busy one. There were at least 10 YSAs that wanted to see the Bishop today. There were several others who wanted to see him at the last minute. That kept me busy!! The third hour was a presentation of the church's Addiction Recovery Program. An advisory couple was in charge. The brother began by telling about his life in and out of jail and all of the addictions he had, including anger, anxiety and depression as well as other stuff. Obviously, he has conquered them. Then his wife talked about the 12 points of the program. I know this program is inspired by the Lord. In fact, it's something all of us, even every member of the church, can use.
We came home and then went to the last stake fireside with the Clayton's speaking. It was very touching as they talked about the temple and shared some personal moments as mission president and wife. They will be sorely missed.  The stake presented them with a photograph of the temple with a beautiful cloud formation in the sky. The clouds are so interesting and beautiful here in Ontario. Then, just as we were about to leave, a YSA came up to us to ask for a ride home. We were glad to do it.
I hope all of you have had a gratifying Sabbath Day today, feeling the love of the Lord for you!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Bonnie has covered the events of the day pretty well. After being up late last night I woke up earlier than I wanted today so I am really tired right now. Hitting the hay real soon.
Training begins tomorrow I hope. Only have 2 weeks and I don't know if that will be sufficient. We may be living with both the new Mission President and Bishop Finnigan for a while in July. Hope we get it done by the end of the month though.
Lights out now. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Saturday, 11 June 2016

June 11, 2016

Bob: It is almost 11:30 so this will be short. Bonnie is already in bed. Elder Wolfley doesn't have internet yet so he came down to use ours. He had to download a program of Canada maps onto his Garmin GPS. It took us almost 3 hours to get it done. Hence the late night.
The baptism session at the temple today was awesome. There were 9 men and 4 women. Between them they brought 75 family file names for baptisms. We did not use one temple file for any of them. We had all ages of participants. A couple could barely get into the font. One sister was in a wheel chair, but she did confirmations only.
Bonnie fixed a good spaghetti dinner tonight and then found out the Munch 'n Mingle for tomorrow has been changed from baked potatoes to spaghetti! Oh well, it won't be as good as what we had I am sure.
Going to quit now. Hope your weekend is going well and that tomorrow will be a special day for you. We have to pick up Sean and Belinda so far. Wolfley's should be able to get there now with the GPS updated. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Friday, 10 June 2016

June 10 2016

Bob: A rather pleasant day at work. Not much going on so we were able to leave on time. Came home and then went shopping. Didn't take too long as we didn't have much to get. When we got home we helped the Wolfley's get things from their car up to their apartment. Most of it is done, but they still need some things for their place. Will work on that tomorrow or Monday.
We get to help with the new member/returning member baptisms tomorrow. Need to be at the temple by 11:30. Don't have much else planned tomorrow.
Weather warmed up today and should be even nicer tomorrow. Looking forward to that. Maybe I can get the car washed tomorrow afternoon.
It's almost 11 so I am calling it a night. Hope everyone had a great week and that your weekend is enjoyable. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  I just spent about an  hour writing up the procedures for completing the baptismal and confirmation records. It's one of the most important things I do. It's a long process from start to finish. The computer was giving me trouble for a good part of it. Of course,  Bob thought it was me. But then when he started doing tonight's blog he saw that the battery needed to be changed on the mouse!! I'm glad he fixed the problem. I am anxious to begin our training. We don't have long to do it. If we have to stay much past June 30th, we will be essentially homeless!
Well, it's late so good night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Thursday, 9 June 2016

June 9, 2016

Bob: See the picture below of the pretty flowers Sister Clayton brought to the office Tuesday from her garden at the Mission Home. That lovely lady trying to keep warm in the background is my beautiful wife, Sister Martin. I guess we were trying to freeze her out by the looks of her shawl.
Today was a busy time. Moved furniture and an assortment of other things up to the Wolfley's apartment on the 9th floor. They didn't get here till this afternoon though. Seems they had a problem at the border and only got a 3-day visa. They have to go back to the border by Saturday to get things worked out. They were told it is no guarantee that they will be allowed to stay in Canada. Official told them they might have to go back to the US and reapply for new visas!! I don't understand why this is so hard. It's like each couple is left to fend for themselves.
Anyway they got here and have moved some things in. They're not unpacking everything though. We finally went to dinner with them around 6:00. Everyone left the office before 4 today, but I had to wait for a UPS pick up which was after 5.
Time to go to bed now. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Flowers from the Clayton's garden

Bonnie:  It's been an interesting day. The Wolfley's are great people and will do just fine in the office. I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with them. The office will be in good hands.
In defense of the above picture, the air conditioning is extra cold where I work. What's an extra layer or two if it makes me comfortable?
I have gone through all of my kitchen cupboards and drawers tonight and pulled out what I really want to keep and what I will let the senior sisters look at and take. It makes me feel good to do this and it means less to pack up and take to the "frozen" north. What is not taken by the sisters I will give to Salvation Army or Value Village.
Our apartment is pretty bare. We gave the  Wolfley's a chair, loveseat and large living room "coffee" table, as well as two tall lamps and two little ones. We are left with the couch and a smaller end table that matches the one we gave them.  We also gave them one of "our" night-stands. We have the other one until we move. We will also give them the shelves in our storage room and the little kitchen table on wheels that has given me more counter space.
Tomorrow will be quiet, probably. The Wolfleys have to go back to the border. The paper they needed was faxed to them by Salt Lake City this afternoon. I hope this all works out for them. It's good that they were granted a three-day visa so they could try to fix things up. The border patrol man said not to expect that they will be able to stay, though. We will pray for them tonight.
May the Lord answer all of our prayers if they are His will tonight! My love to all.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Wednesday, 8 June 2016

June 8, 2016

Bob: Not too much going on today. Expected Wolfley's, but they stopped in Buffalo and didn't come in today. We have to rearrange the moving plans now. I hope this gets better as it goes along. We will be a day behind now.
Weather still on the cool side, but it is looking up come the weekend. We have to help with the temple baptisms this Saturday, but it shouldn't be too long. We have to be done around 2:00 so the next group can come in.
We did move the bed frame up to the new apartment tonight and will move some other things tomorrow morning. The building maintenance man still has several things to do in the apartment too. We were in the apartment about 5:30 and I thought he was coming back, but he didn't. He'll probably have to spend a good bit of time in there tomorrow while we are moving things in.
Well I'm going to go to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: It's crazy trying to figure out things for Wolfley's. Since they didn't come today, we went ahead and decided for them what furniture goes to them and what stays at least temporarily with us. I hope it will be ok with them. While Bob, Elder Youngberg, Elder Budgett and the missionaries move all of this stuff up to their apartment, I will be at the office awaiting their arrival. Maybe they will be able to meet Bob at the storage hut. That would work very well. We'll have to keep in close touch throughout the day. I think I am as prepared as I can be to train Sister Wofley. I hope it works out well. We'll most likely go out to eat because they won't have any food in their apartment. Sister Budgett will be giving them some breakfast food for Friday morning which is very sweet of her. She is also buying a shower curtain liner so they can at least shower tomorrow night. What would we do without good people to help us?
Time to close. Have a good night everyone!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Tuesday, 7 June 2016

June 7, 2016

Bonnie: We got home late, about 9:30, but it's been a good day. I have been able to get much accomplished for the Wolfley's arrival tomorrow. There is still much to do in the morning but it is all coming together, finally. We will leave the office about 5, I hope, and take them to the storage shed so Sister Wolfley can pick out some dishes, silverware and glasses, etc. They will go to dinner at the Mission Home with Clayton's at 6:30 and stay there that night. Then tomorrow is the big move-in for them. I am hopeful that they will share some of the living room furniture with us (I'm sure they will.) It's going to be kind of crazy from now on out for us.
The other good thing is that Elder V's mother called after going to the bank. They have hope that the cashier's check can be cancelled and another one written for her son. We will know Monday or Tuesday about that. It makes me  have hope that all will work out with this. It's been a hard lesson to learn. If I had listened to the Holy Ghost none of this would have happened. I would have found the gift on the shelf in time for May transfers. Well, I guess that is one thing I am here to learn!
I  hope everyone has had a good day and night, especially with warmer weather than we are having right now! It's cold outside!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: My wife, complaining about the cold. She really didn't think it was a good idea that I left a window open this morning. I will admit it was chilly in the apartment, but it warmed up quickly once Bonnie started buzzing around in here.
It was a long day. I had the window blinds open in my office and didn't notice how late it was as it was still daylight outside. Got a lot of month end things filed away and everything caught up for tomorrow. Probably won't start with the training until Friday.
There hasn't been any rain today, but the temperature has sure dropped. Feels like early spring again. Karl told me they have the wood stove going again in Elk Lake. Bonnie is so happy to hear that.
Well, got to get to bed. Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Monday, 6 June 2016

June 6, 2016

Bonnie:  We just got home from FHE tonight and it was very fun. It was the end to a very satisfying day.  I talked to Elder V.'s mom about her son's missing package today. She said she had this insurance money for about a year, and not to worry about her it, although it is worth $6000! Anyway, this load is lighter to bear now.
I am trying hard to get things set up for when Sister Wolfley comes Wednesday. I spent the afternoon going through things in the storage shed. There are dishes and silverware and pots and pans, kitchen supplies, three microwaves, glasses and lots of mugs. I think she will be happy with it. Sister DeDios, the wife of one of the counselors, who is my visiting teacher, helped me so much. Then she took me out for a late lunch and bought butter tarts to share in the office when we got back.
We played Family Feud tonight at FHE. These kids are so much fun. I will really miss them. Next Monday night I want to take pictures of all of them for our blog.
I'll let Bob finish up. It's time for bed!!
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Got a lot done today after I took Bonnie to the storage shed. Finished the phone/text report for President Clayton. Will give it to him tomorrow and see if he wants to look at anyone in particular in a little more detail. Also have to explain that someone sprayed frosting on the sliding doors for the solarium. Vertica wants $542 to clean it off. Must of been done by the people in the apartment before us. He mailed them today. Also, it will cost about $500 to rent a large van to move all the furniture to Temiskaming.
Just checked the frosting on the doors. Peeled it off one of the doors in less than 5 minutes. Let's see now; that's about $135 that Vertica wanted for that door. I think we'll be able to get it off the doors without much hassle.
The weather took a dramatic change today. Outside temperature according to the car thermometer  was 59 degrees on our way to FHE. Predicted highs for the next 2 days is 67 and 57! Will need a jacket to walk in the morning. Need to dig my vest out and start wearing again.
It's late. Time to go to bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Sunday, 5 June 2016

June 5, 2016

Bonnie:  It's been a glorious Sabbath Day today. I love the testimonies of the YSAs. One thought I remember from sacrament meeting was the comment that we should have an intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father. I don't know about you, but this is something I want to work on.
There were lots of visits for the  Bishop today. It's hard to communicate with my two assistant executive secretaries and the Bishop when changes occur. Today was very crazy that way. Oh, well.
We ended the day with a meeting about our trip to see all of the "underground railroad" sites. The senior couples met at the Youngberg's apartment to talk about our plans. I am so excited to do this. I plan on reading several books about this period of history. We ended our discussion with lemon meringue pie. What could beat that?
Well, we started this late, again, so I will close and let Bob finish up.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Bob: Coconut cream might be better, but what we had was great!
Weather cooled off a little bit today. It rained and that seemed to cool things off. I talked to Karl up in Elk Lake. He had a fire built in his wood burner to take the chill off the house.
Today just as the 1st Counselor was getting ready to start bearing his testimony the Bishop stood up and said he had to take care of something. He asked for all those in the congregation that like to sing to please stand up. He asked them more than once and even called on several individuals by name and some of the missionary couples (we were not included for obvious reasons) to stand up. Eventually he had a large number of them standing up. He then proceeded to tell them they were now 'appointed to be the ward choir' for Ward Conference in 3 weeks. There would be no practice, and only one of the simple hymns to sing! After testimonies Sister Padron announced the hymn would be number 97, "Lead, Kindly Light". I think the YSA enjoyed being 'drafted' for the choir.
Well it's late and time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Saturday, 4 June 2016

June 4, 2016

Bob: Been a relaxing day. Did go on an hour long walk with Elder Youngberg this morning. Took Bonnie to the office so she could look some more for Elder Vanderzanden's package, but it didn't turn up. We had some shopping to do and then went to the Burrito Boys for lunch/dinner. They have 2 sizes of burritos, small and large. The small is 1 lb 2 ounces and the large is 1 lb 6 ounces. A small one makes a meal.
Bonnie has been busy packing winter clothes and things to take north. I tried to clean off the desk and organize some of the loose papers. It looks some better, but still not perfectly clean. It is a work in progress.
We went to Costco to pick up my 2 prescriptions. I think half of Brampton goes to Costco on Saturday, and the other half goes on Friday night. Anyway, we bought a package of air fresheners for the car. Tonight I started to put them in the storage room, but they are no where to be found. I know Bonnie had them in the car because she asked me about them. Where they went to we do not know.
Well I am going to get ready for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie:  To all of our older readers, isn't it fun growing old? We seem to forget things more and more these days. I'm sure the air fresheners will show up. It's been a great day today because we have accomplished much in preparation for our move. The spare bedroom is cleaned out including the closet where my winter clothes were put. That's a relief. We are letting one of the other senior couples have the Christmas tree, lights and ornaments and other odds and ends. It will make our move easier. I inherited a pair of long boots, too, from a sister missionary who did not want to take them home. And also a long warm skirt. That will be nice come winter up north.
I am looking forward to Fast Sunday tomorrow. I need to feel the spiritual uplift it will bring. I am so discouraged about the lost mail for our missionary. We looked in the truck and the trailer for it today. This package is a very important one. I know there are others who are praying that it is found, too.
All prayers are welcome.
May we all feel the Lord's love tomorrow as we honor Him on the Sabbath Day.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

My Office with things back in place

Potential storage space??

Friday, 3 June 2016

June 3, 2016

Bob: Not too much going on right now. Without apartment problems things seem to go much smoother. We were out of the office and home by 5:30 today. The FM group steam cleaned all the carpets throughout the building today. We had to get everything off the floor, etc so they could do their job. Sisters felt we needed to clean off our desks, etc. A picture of my desk, work area is below. It will never be this uncluttered again till the next cleaning by Elder Wolfley next spring.
Had the Erickson's, Cannon's and Youngberg's over tonight for a 'game' night. We ended up playing Splendor. Too much strategy for me. We played as couples. I think Bonnie and I got the sportsmanship trophy for last place. But we were very close. A better draw or two and we would have been right there. The couple I thought wouldn't do so well actually won. And the couple that seemed to be in the lead barely stayed ahead of us. It was fun though.
Well it's after 11:00 so we are hitting the hay. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: No one has come forward with the missing package today which makes me sad. Tomorrow we will search the truck and trailer. Today we searched through the van and there was nothing there. The good thing is that President Clayton knows about it. He called me tonight. He will make sure all of the missionaries know about the missing package. When I prayed about it this morning I was told to have more faith, so this is what I am trying to do. The package has inheritance money in it for the Elder. He is the only member of the church in his family. I can only imagine what they are thinking about the mission and the church losing this money. But, I have faith it will be found.
Bob's office will look so much better when his stuff is put back in place. We are both trying to be as prepared as we can when the Wolfley's come on Wednesday. What an adventure this has been.
It was fun to end the night with our friends playing games. I hope everyone had a good night as well.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

My desk without the usual buildup

130 Smoke Alarms and 2008 Tax records surrounding Bonnie's desk (from my office)

Where is Pitney Bowes?






Thursday, 2 June 2016

June 2, 2016

Bob: Another normal Thursday evening: first we eat dinner, then get groceries and finish the night by washing clothes. It will be nice to get a washer/dryer in our apartment in Haileybury so we can alter our Thursday night schedule. Now at least we are freed up for Friday night.
The FM Group is having our office deep cleaned tomorrow. Tonight is the first time I have had a completely empty desktop since I arrived in Canada. And there is nothing on the floor in my office either. Maybe I should take a picture in the morning.
Got Eric Clapton back on YouTube tonight. Really enjoy some his songs. My favorite is "Wonderful Tonight". It only has over 35 Million views.
I think we have a game night planned for tomorrow night. Cannons, Ericksons, and Youngbergs are coming here for an evening of games.
Talked to Penske truck today. I think we'll rent one of their trucks for our move. Going to stop this Saturday and see how big of one we need. They are just down the street from us.
Well I am going to close for now. Hope everyone has a great weekend planned. Love to everyone and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob

Bonnie: We deep-cleaned Bob's office today. It will look so much better when everything is back in place after they clean the carpets tomorrow. His office seems to be the "catch-all" for any extra stuff from the apartments. Tonight we took some of it to the storage hut, and some of it to the garbage bin and some of it to Salvation Army. Sister Erickson and I cleaned up all of the office--really she did most of it. I hope they clean the carpets in our office first before the rest of the meeting house tomorrow. That way we can be back to work sooner. Bob put two large storage boxes and 130 smoke detectors on the ledge above my desk so I can't even see out. I'll be glad when they are put back into his office.
Today I took care of four things that make me grumpy: Canada customs is now charging us for the name-tags we receive from the Provo MTC. The outfit that prints our cards for the language classes didn't deliver them on time, after I paid extra so I asked for our money back. Then I had to call UPS to be sure they will still be our broker. We were suspended for awhile because of an unpaid parcel. Lastly, I had to call SL about our Ensign deliveries. They  have not sent our foreign language ones. That seems to be taken care of for now anyway. But, I have a very big problem to take care of next--an important package for one of our missionaries has been lost. This makes me just sick. All of us have been praying that it would be found, but we haven't heard that this is so.
This would not have been a very good day except that my sister Bette sent us a package that is wonderful. She started a scrapbook for us about our mission! It's full of pictures that we took when they were visiting the end of March. There is lots of room to add more, which we will do from now on. It is so beautiful! I love it! It has really cheered me up.
Good night everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie

Wednesday, 1 June 2016

June 1, 2016

Bob: June already; where does time go? We were up early today and at the office by 7:00. Prepared a waffle breakfast for the MLC attendees. About 36 of them. Things went pretty well. Picture below shows the supplies that Bonnie had to have ready for the them.
Added some other pictures of the past few days.
Time for bed. Love to all and good night brothers.
Dad/Bob



 Elder Patrick and De Peiza (Were in Brampton during our beginning)

Tender Mercy Jar after Transfers

Niagara Falls

At the Office

Departing Missionaries after the temple session

Bonnie:  It was hard today only because it may be our last MLC. I'm going to miss these wonderful missionaries! I got real teary-eyed as one sister and I talked. Wow! I didn't think it would be this hard. I am so tired right now, though. I'll share more thoughts tomorrow. Have a good night, everyone.
Love, Mom/Bonnie