October 4, 2015

Not far from the director’s home, along the side of Koala Road, is a slightly visible concrete survey marker.  Were it not for mowing and trimming it would long ago have disappeared from view.  Fortunately, immediately adjacent, a witness post has also been driven deeply into the soil upon which an important notice is prominently positioned. 

Witness Post

Survey Marker

 It courteously asks that the nearby survey marker which defines a certain point not be disturbed. From this certain point one could confidently measure to discern the proper placement of fence lines or property divisions.  One’s own location could even be shown (as compared to the true witnessed point).

We have thought of this true point, and of witnesses declaring it so, during the last two days of General Conference.  How similar in principle the two are.  Those who spoke from the pulpit in the conference center likewise served as witnesses of true revealed doctrine to which we may wisely determine guidelines and our own present position in relation to them.  How truly fortunate we are for the truth sincerely witnessed of during the conference.  The faithful men and women who spoke authoritatively testified of what they knew to be true.  They sincerely cautioned that the declared points are not moveable, and that we will remain safe and secure as we position our thoughts and actions appropriately in relation to them.   

We have also been so fortunate to have enjoyed visits from two of our sons and their families since last writing.  Aaron and Alicia and family returned from Nauvoo and spent another night with us before heading west again. 

"I Love Mormon Girls"

 Less than two days later Melanie and kids arrived, to be joined Saturday by Arthur.  We have surely had a great time with both families.  We are so grateful they both came.  We are hopeful that they all felt the sweet spirit of the sacred land that we are privileged to temporarily reside upon.  Each family allowed us to join them as they visited other church historical sites and other areas of interest.  To be with them again (even if but for a few hours) was very special to us.  We enclose a sampling of many pictures taken to document the experiences we shared.

In the seat of the Bat Wing Mower

 Ride in the Water Truck

Rylyn, Kens, & Chyllia tour an Amish Family at Graber Farms

Rylyn, Art, Melanie, Kensley, & Chyllia at Far West

Beginning last Saturday, and concluding just yesterday, Ben and Del Ray Cox (brothers who lease and farm and ranch a large portion of the land of Adam-ondi-Ahman) harvested the many acres of the valley planted in corn.  Marilyn had mentioned she would like a ride in the combine, to which came the reply that a plate of goodies would serve as the set admission fee.   So, with “chocolate-pumpkin” muffins in hand we approached the field.  They held true to their commitment and soon she was sitting beside the operator of the combine and seeing firsthand the process.  It was fascinating to both of us. 

Harvested Corn going into storage.

Well worth the treats!

A great ride cutting the corn...

Dal Ray Cox (farmer)

 Eight rows were harvested in one swath, producing a constant heavy stream of husked and shiny dried kernels which then cascaded into an accompanying wagon and were later conveyed into large trucks and hauled to storage.  They worked until long after our bedtime and started very early each day until they finished to huge task.

We have been asked to now repair a fence line so that the cattle can be moved to an adjacent pasture area, to close gates leading to the valley, and allow access to other roads in time to commence the soy bean harvest.  They will soon be dry enough for that next farming step to be taken.  Completing these steps (so critical to their farming enterprises) must be accompanied with a huge sigh of relief by these hard-working men. 

Several of the grandsons were excited to see the wide variety of wildlife living on the property.  They counted the different animals seen.  Rylyn made a list of each and tried to keep count also. 

 Both families also enjoyed visiting the Amish community nearby.  And we do not tire of seeing these industrious families, tilling the soil and pursuing other careers with simple means and ways. 

Horse and Buggy waiting for its riders

We continue to be very busy with the daily tasks assigned to us in maintaining and beautifying the land, indexing, working on humanitarian and community projects, and coordinating the efforts of the other missionary couples. The sisters have most recently been involved in tying quilts (along with the Relief Society of the Gallatin ward) that will be sent to military posts.

We hope that all are doing well.  Please remember that you are thought of and prayed for regularly.  Please keep in touch.   

September 27, 2015

Weeks pass so quickly, each full of enjoyable activity.  Our association with our fellow missionaries is very beneficial to us, remarkably rewarding.  We have grown to love and appreciate each couple.  All of them are so talented.  They are each devoted in exemplary fashion. 

Monday evening we joined for family home evening.  Margaret Burns, a delightful lady who has lived her long life entirely in this community (but not yet a member) consented to share her memories with us. 

Margaret Burns 

 She possessed a treasure trove of fascinating information and a keen sense of humor.  Her father drove the team of horses that pulled the school wagon during her early school years.  It was difficult (she mused) to sluff school with this daily interface.  Nevertheless she and her close friends once did, but soon after learned that their unexcused absence had been discovered.  Each were called to the principal’s office to offer an explanation of where they had been.  She followed her close friend who had lied that she had been at home.  Margaret said only that she had been with her friend.  When their real episode became known and each was to be disciplined and punished for their dishonesty, she objected by stating that she had told the truth and indeed had been where she had said – with her friend. She chuckled these years later that she felt that she had been (technically) true to what her parents had taught her regarding the importance of honesty.

She spoke of two particular experiences very tenderly which illustrated the reverent regard she and her husband held for Adam-ondi-Ahman.  During her school days she (with her friends) would walk from the small village of Jamison to a high point on this property quite regularly.  She stated that they always felt special while there and that their days seemed to go better following these excursions. 

Overlook of the Valley

 For many years, she also stated, a proposal of the placement of a dam and the resulting reservoir was considered in the state legislature that would have covered much of the area with water (including the valley of Adam-ondi-Ahman and their own farm land).  Many of the locals were selling out with the assumption the project would proceed.  She was worried about their livelihood.  Her husband assured her with his insistence that they would remain and plant crops.  He felt that the neighboring land was holy and that (because of that) the dam would never be built.  After twenty-five years of consideration the federal proposal was finally dropped and removed from further discussion by decree of the same governor of Missouri who had also formally rescinded the extermination order issued by Governor Lilburn Boggs so many years before.

Monday through Thursday we went about our normal daily duties.  Most days began with early morning sprayings of the roads. 

Early morning water spraying crew
Grandpa, Owen & Taylor

 Midweek the water level of the main pond from which water is extracted to fill the tanker fell below the submersed pipe used.  This resulted in taking more loads from the secondary pond used.  If more heavy rainfall doesn’t soon come the daily task of spraying will have to end for the fall.  We both meet with the other missionaries for morning devotionals at 8:00 (Kevin a bit earlier at 7:30 for a planning meeting to organize work assignments for the men).  Then we begin mowing, extracting, etc.

Taylor mowing lawn at AOA

  Two of the elders have spent the majority of their working hours repairing the home that one of the couples is anxious to move in to before their family arrives for a visit.  When that urgent need is met other tasks will then be able to resume.

Kevin has been in frequent contact with church authorities and attorneys during the week who are negotiating a new contract with the local gentlemen who stocks fish on the many ponds on the property.  The final contract has now been prepared which will soon be presented to the man for his signature.  Hopefully he will agree to the new details contained and continue to be involved. 

Thursday evening Aaron, Alicia, their children and Alicia’s grandmother arrived for a visit.  We are so glad they came.  We enjoyed seeing some of the church history sites and other points of interest with them Friday afternoon touring the property here Saturday morning, and visiting the Amish community later in the day.

East End Overlook

Liberty Jail

While the girls attended the Women’s Conference broadcast that evening the boys went fishing in one of the ponds.  It was good there were three older men to stay ahead of the younger boys who had a great catch.  Many worms were placed on the hooks, casts made, lines untangled, some snags freed, and many fish extracted.  The four boys reeled in 34 fish (mostly blue gills).  After dark they watched the filleting process.  A great and memorable time together was enjoyed!

Preston, Owen, & Taylor with two fish on each line

The Big Catch!

Taylor, Taner & Anika

Aaron & Preston

Today we attended sacrament meeting together and then drove to see the Far West temple site.  A member of the stake presidency was present.  He announced the creation of the Far West Missouri Stake, to be formed on October 18^th from units of the Liberty and Platte Missouri stakes.  A portion of the letter read which was given to me by the Bishop stated: “With the creation of the Far West Missouri Stake, all three of these stakes will provide even greater strength and refuge to all who will gather.  These are truly days never to be forgotten!”  We agree, and are thankful.

Please have a great week, and always remember you are in our thoughts and prayers.

September 20, 2015

September 20, 2015

We have been very busy this past week, organizing work assignments and then working with the Elders and Sisters in completing them.  In addition to that involvement we have moved from the apartment complex to a much larger home next to the work center. 

Yellow House

 Marilyn has especially been busy organizing the new surroundings.  She has a wonderful ability to transform a house into a home.  It is nice to be close enough to the office, shop, and indexing room to walk to the various meetings and functions.

This sacred land is so beautiful.  The sunrises and sunsets are, quite regularly, very spectacular. 

Sunset

 On clear nights (with few competing lights) the view of the starlit sky is magnificent.  And always, this grandeur, is accompanied with a reverence and serenity that we have been so grateful for.  We are truly blessed to be here.

It has been our turn at leading the last two sessions of scripture study.  One of the couples who recently left presented the introduction to Sections 121-123 which were revealed while the Prophet Joseph Smith was in Liberty Jail.  They had served as missionaries there (previous to their call to Adam-ondi-Ahman) and were well qualified to present the context within which these special teachings were given.  It has been interesting to re-read these sections not long after visiting the restored site where they were received and feeling of the great suffering of those long months of incarceration.  The site has been aptly referred to as a “prison temple”.  We assume that we will finish the discussion of these sections this coming Tuesday evening.  Another missionary couple will then become the teachers.

The rainfall of a few days ago quickly revived the drying lawns and brought the lawn mowing crew back into action.  Another heavier rainfall Friday will mean even more of the same for the next few days.  With a smaller contingency of missionaries for the fall and winter, those who remain still keep very busy.  We counseled, as a group of Elders, regarding the tasks ahead in an attempt to set some priorities.  There is much to do!

Wednesday evening we met again with the Betterment Committee of the small village of Jameson.  The citizenry is very involved with ambitious plans and many fund-raising functions in mind to help meet their objectives.  There are only a few over a hundred residents of the once thriving community.  Many of these good people were raised and schooled here and long so sincerely that it not become a ghost town. 

 We were privileged to travel to the Kansas City Temple Friday morning.  While on the freeway (with Elder and Sister Love in the back seat) we passed through such a heavy rainstorm that we were forced to the road-side while the heaviest, blinding, burst passed.  Shortly after resuming travel a lightning bolt accompanied by an instantaneous thunder clap struck within just a few feet of the front right of the car.  We had never been so close to so ferocious and powerful a jolt.  It was a real “wake-up” to those who were caught unsuspecting, but who immediately became awestruck and very grateful it was not even closer.

Saturday morning, while looking over the property, I came upon several police cars and a wrecker removing yet another from a steep roadside.  One of the officers told me that the slide-off had occurred during the previous night while involved in a high speed chase.  They were pursuing a man who had fought with a fellow policeman.  He then mentioned that the manhunt was still underway.  Soon a patrol boat was scouring the nearby Grand River and a helicopter hovering above in the search.  Around noon the culprit was discovered wading near the River Bank in his escape attempt and soon in custody again.  A little excitement on the home front!  We thought it fortunate that he had headed north rather than toward the work center where six pickup trucks (left by the departing missionaries) were parked with keys in the ignition.  Any of those would have made a very ready get-away vehicle.  Perhaps we should be more vigilant at locking homes too.

Later in the day one of the farmers who raise crops and run cattle on the property pulled me over to inform me that he had just found a dead calf among the herd.  He asked if we could take the backhoe to the field, dig a grave, and bury the animal. 

Burying the calf

 He assumed it had died of pneumonia.  It was rather sad, especially as the other cattle gathered around to watch.  It was as though a funeral was in process with many mourners.  It seemed they were feeling and communicating with one another.    Another ten calves are missing, presumed by the farmers to have been drug into the woods by a mountain lion.  All of these represent heavy losses to the farmers.

We are looking forward to the next couple of weeks which include visits from Aaron and his family and Arthur and his.  It will be nice to host them more easily than we could have before moving into the larger home which boasts two attached multi-roomed apartments.   It will be so nice to see them, just as it is to hear from all of you.  We think of you often, always with love and a tender longing for the days when we will more frequently be able to enjoy your company.  Please keep in touch, and have a good week.   

September 13, 2015

The procession of cars have left with six pretty sad missionary couples left behind. 

Last pickup pulls away........

We are on our own now and feel privileged to  have served with six wonderful mentoring couples.

We have had a busy week filled with many emotions.  The six couples that left were off for the week packing and cleaning their  homes.  Kevin and I began conducting meetings and work assignments.  Everyone has excepted  added assignments willingly which has made the transition so nice.  It rained a little one evening so the grass started growing again and pushed five men to get the 200 acres of grassed mowed before noon on Friday, but they made it.

Susy Pipkin

Tuesday our Home teaching sister we visit who lives in Hamilton wanted a tour of the property so after Scripture Study she met us and we took her around until dark. 

She has ten children and lives in a home over 145 years old.  She is divorced and has many interesting stories to tell.

Farewell Cake

Wednesday the city of Jameson had a going away party for the couples that were leaving.  They had a great  turnout and were so appreciative for all the service AOA has done for their little community.  There is a single man that lost his leg in a motorcycle accident that rides in his motorized wheel chair on the roads here each day with his dog following behind.

He has a wonderful voice and does an interpretation of Elvis.  We were entertained by his music for most of the evening and he took many requests.  (brought back lots of old memories)

Sis. Day with quilt  she made for Jameson

 Sister Day one of our missionaries that is serving now made a quilt for the Jameson auction that is will be held next August at their  annual picnic. Each year the missionaries make and donate a quilt to their community. It is displayed at the Mary-Dale Bed & Breakfast and people buy  raffle tickets during the year.  The money made from the auction stays in their little town.

Thursday evening after Scripture Study we went shopping for groceries for Elder and & Sister Christensen.  Friday morning another sister and I went to clean their trailer and get it ready for their arrival.  (Kevin was so nice to go over before and open the door for me.  The hide-a-key is stored in a little utility shed by the front door.  A year ago there was a snake in the shed on the shelf that the key is stored on.  Don’t want to take any chances…..)

Friday evening the Christensen’s came over for a Mexican dinner with the Whipples.  We enjoyed the evening visiting and asking many questions.  He has a relative that is a national yodeler. (Last name Christensen) We watched him on U tube.  You may want to google him.  He is very entertaining!  Elder Christensen said he had over 200 concerts already scheduled for next year around the world.

Saturday morning we went with Elder and Sister Christensen, and Bro. Springer to visit some of the properties around AOA that were recently purchased. 

Bro. Springer with Elder & Sister Christensen

We arrived back  and all had lunch together and then another meeting with the missionaries that are staying  here with the Christensen’s to remind us of some rules mostly for safety we much follow.  Last evening we had our closing dinner with all the missionaries, some entertainment and a message from Elder and Sister Christensen.

Today we had a special Sacrament Meeting here on the property from 9:00 until 10:30 a.m.  Elder Christensen said it was the second time in nine years they have had one here. You could feel the spirit so strong , and as he talked with us about the importance of the Sacrament and then the Sacrament was passed.  After the sacrament the twelve that were leaving bore their testimonies and then after the closing prayer were given  their release letters. (They are released by the 1^st Presidency rather than their Stake Presidents.) 

For the closing song we sang:  How Great Thou Art.  While Elder Doxey was over this area he added two verses to this song that we sang.

“When Christ shall come to Adam-ondi-Ahman, His reign on earth, of a thousand years to start; with millions there, with family and with faithful, I’ll stand and sing, “My God, how great though art!” 

Chorus:

"And oh, the joy, the moment most supernal, when with thee, Lord, the sacred emblems blessed; I do partake, renew covenants eternal, and in Thy presence, Thou dost grant me rest.”

Chorus:

So grateful for the wonderful feelings and experiences we are having here to serve on this sacred land where the Savior and many that have walked the same paths that we do each day will return.

Please know of our love and appreciation for each of you.  You are  in our thoughts and prayers each day.

September 6, 2015

Last Sunday evening, after completing our journal of the previous week’s activities, Elder and Sister Whipple met us for a walk in the valley.  We have thoroughly enjoyed our association with them.  They have certainly fulfilled their role as mentors to us, always with such kindness and understanding.  Little did we realize that upon their departure we would be asked to assume their responsibilities as directors of the Church properties at Adam-ondi-Ahman.  We first drove slowly along what we refer to as the lower road that borders the row-crop land in the valley. The status of the crops of both corn and soybeans was checked, noting how much dryer the soil had become with such less rain than we had become accustomed to.  The heavy dark soil was parched and cracking, the cornstalks yellowing and crisp, and the kernels nearly dry enough for harvest.  From the distant lookout, high above the valley, the corn crop has the appearance of a giant “amber field of grain”.

 The beans were growing well but not as close to harvest as the corn.  Each stage of the crop-land, from bare beautiful soil, through straight rows of small seedlings and successive growth to maturity, has been so interesting to observe.

Throughout the week following, our schedules were varied and hectic.  We spent much time shadowing the Whipples and assuming limited duties that could best be learned in the doing.  Each motion of the “baton passing” has been accompanied with mixed feelings of apprehension, expression of relief on their part, and pangs of sadness upon contemplating the imminent departure of friends we have grown to love and admire.  It seems that each experience has invited a photo-op for other missionaries (particularly the Sisters who record the mission history).  The Sisters (departing and staying) are captured as a group and separately. 

AOA Sisters 

Sisters leaving

Sister Staying

 The Elders are caught doing daily tasks.  One brought a mushroom he had found while in the woods working.  

Mowing for the 1st time at the Yellow House

Huge Mushroom 15" across

We met with two of the farmers one evening to have them sign their contracts.  Another farmer’s fields were toured.  None are members of our Church.  These are all good, hardworking, men who (in nearly each case) hold other day jobs.  Framed pictures of the father of two of them were presented the same evening.  It was indeed touching to see the tears of gratitude for the gift which represented the only picture of their father while in a tractor working the fields of this land which is also very special to them.  They are powerful men, with bulging muscles and broad shoulders, and faces and hands reflective of years of hard work and the risks of farming, yet tender and loving and respectful.  We were in white shirts and ties, they in coveralls; and so we shared our ties with them, which broke the ice and invited chuckles.  

Keith Sutton & Ben Cox

 They have promised Marilyn a ride in the combine during corn harvest if she pays the entrance fee of a plate of cookies.

Jobs needing attention for some time are finally being accomplished.  A large tree, dead for several years has been removed.  It had been the corner post of an abandoned fence line, unknown before dulling a chain saw blade.  The project took the equivalent of a full day’s labor for two by the time the small branches were chipped and the larger limbs and trunk blocked for firewood and hauled to the woodshed.  And then, of course, there was the newer fence close by that needed repair following the crash of the tree upon it.  Fortunately I had detached the barbwire from the posts and they could be lifted back in place following straightening a T-post.  It was a very hot and humid day; we were drenched with sweat by the time the job was done. 

Thursday we enjoyed an afternoon visit from Kaleb and Kasey Snell.  We visited a neighboring Amish village, enjoyed dinner together in our apartment, attended Scripture Study Class, and toured the site with them.            

 As it was nearing dusk, we attempted to save time touring by dropping them (with Marilyn) at the parking lot to Tower Hill.  I drove through a gate close by, and on to a service road, intending to meet them at Preacher’s Rock which overlooks the Pecan Grove.  Arriving a bit ahead of them, I started up the path in their direction.  Not far from the base I encountered a large rattle snake which, when interrupted, coiled immediately. (Picture not included!) I called to them (in warning) and the plan to see that section of the path was understandingly aborted. Other than this needed alteration, the balance of the evening together was great, spent enjoying their company, the beautiful scenery; and observing lots of wildlife.  

We made home/visiting teaching visits during the week to those families assigned to us (while attending the Far West ward) for the last time.  Today’s Sunday meetings were our last there today also.  This coming Sunday a Sacrament Meeting will be held, with Elder Christensen presiding, here on this sacred land which will include testimonies of the departing couples.  The following week we will begin attending the Gallatin Ward which is much closer to our homes.  We are becoming acquainted with wonderful people whose lives enrich ours.  We are very grateful for this special blessing.

The departing missionaries have now completed their work assignments and will spend the coming week packing, cleaning, and preparing for departure either next Sunday or Monday.  Fortunately they will still be available for questions as we now assume more of their duties.  We will both begin conducting morning meetings, and coordinating daily tasks.  The group will be just half the size we a used to, probably a little quieter too. They will still join us for scripture study classes.  We will greet the Christensen when they arrive with a dinner at our apartment that will include our friends, the Whipples.  Meetings and interviews, a tour of the adjoining farm properties, a social with the Jameson community, and numerous other activities will fill our week.