April 3, 2016

Pond at the Duplex (Can you see 3 deer in the background?)

We have been greeted many mornings this week by beautiful sunrises. 

Beautiful Sunrise in front of our home

 Most days have been warm - conducive to outdoor work projects.  The lawn mowing crew has kept busy all week.  Not knowing when rain showers might interrupt we try to mow all the areas that can be covered when weather permits.  Fortunately, we mowed all areas this week.  It appears that, by tomorrow morning, we will need to start over again.  But it looks so nice – a lush bright green. 

 One of the well pumps malfunctioned and was pulled for repair.  The problem was identified and repaired when the parts needed arrived.  When the reset was attempted Friday it was discovered that the well had silted in a bit.  Tomorrow the pump will be lifted again, the pipe shortened, and the pump raised above the sediment.  There are always many jobs on the list for repair and maintenance on a property of such size. 

We continue to upgrade the riding lawn mowers.  An older unit was traded in for a shiny new one during the week.  As the check needed to be presented prior to pickup we traveled across the Missouri River into Kansas to hand deliver it to the Agricultural Marketing building of the John Deere company located west of Kansas City.  It was a large office building, very tightly secured.  We were not allowed past the metal detectors but were assured by the security officer that he would get it to the appropriate office. 

 Soon we were informed all was taken care and that we could obtain the new equipment.  Another two missionaries were dispatched to St. Joseph and later that afternoon returned with the mower.  The mechanics will now ready it for service Monday and by Tuesday it will be on the job.   A giant combine was on display in front of the John Deere office building. 

Kevin in front of John Deere Office Building

 The operator would be well above the crop and could harvest a very wide swath.

We were happy to greet Lynda and Susan Henderson at the Kansas City airport Thursday afternoon. 

Lynda and Susan at the Kansas City Airport

They will be with us for about a week.  We have enjoyed showing them around the property and introducing them to the other missionaries.  We were able to show them the Amish community of Jamesport Friday afternoon after work.

Lynda & Susan by an Amish Buggy

  They have attended a scripture study class with us, and

 have listened to the General Conference sessions with us. 

We have surely enjoyed the General Conference.  We are so grateful for the many blessings of the gospel and church membership, including the comfort and guidance of being led by inspired leadership.  We have learned much and have felt encouraged to strive harder and do better. 

 Last evening, while waiting in the Gallatin chapel for the Priesthood Session to begin, a fellow missionary mentioned that he was going to text his sons (who likewise would be waiting, but in chapels far away).  Thoughts came to mind, and tears to eyes, as I reminisced of those many sessions when we were able to be seated together as father and sons and taught by prophets, seers and revelators.  This has been a wonderful blessing to us, and has always be special to me. 

We are aware that many of you have much to do during the next weeks, with work and family and other activities.  We know that important decisions are being made and new opportunities opening to you.  Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers.  We love and appreciate you very much.  We are pleased with your faithfulness and accomplishments.  We are confident that you are seeking to do what is right.  This brings all of us much happiness. Have a great week.