There is Beauty All Around

In a day touched with sunshine and rain there was so much beauty to appreciate today.  We had the car, so Mary Poppins stayed home.

We got there in plenty of time to enjoy visiting with some of the members of the branch.  They are faithful brothers and sisters who come every week and are attuned to each others' needs. The home teaching and visiting teaching reflects a love for each other and a desire to keep everyone close. Each month there are activities that draw people together to enjoy each other and to enjoy good times and great occasions.

It was announced today that on September 8, there will be a Europe-wide broadcast for all women age 12 and up.  Speakers will be Elders Bednar, Ballard and Hallstrom.  That will be a special occasion.  I wonder if we will have access to it at the new center, or if all the YSAs will meet with the greater population of women at our Copenhagen church building....which isn't that big.

Last night a member of our branch presidency texted us and asked us to spend 15 minutes between the two of us bearing our testimonies.  SK began thinking about what he would say (in Danish) and I decided that since he was busy, there was no way I could elicit his help ... so I just decided to give it in English.  I know that is a cop out.  But I got a good night's sleep!...no worrying.

When it came time for me to speak, a dear woman from the ward (who translates for sacrament meeting a couple of times a month) stood and walked to the pulpit with me.  I would say a sentence or two in English and she would repeat in Danish.  She is wonderful at that, and it seemed to go fine....neither of us had to be quiet for long.  I was able to express the tender thoughts of my heart for the Gospel and I sat down happy.

SK got up and spoke for 8 or more minutes.  I understood a lot of what he said....and he did a great job.  He spoke of his great grandfather who was born not far from here in Torslund.  He talked about the Book of Mormon and his testimony of its truthfulness.  He was great.

We spent quite a while visiting after the meeting and then came home to a lovely and restful afternoon and evening.  The sky darkened and the rain poured down....it was such a peaceful sight that I just sat on the couch for some time watching and listening.

Later in the evening, Sister Hamblin dropped by to return something and we visited with her.  SK shared some of his thoughts about special scriptures and she did too.

Don't you love days like that?