Missionaries, Coming and Going

Monday, Monday....ah sweet Monday.  I have always loved Mondays.

We had a little time this morning, so I did some cleaning and some studying for Thursday night's English lesson.  The institute lessons are really fun and challenging.  I enjoy the people who come, and I enjoy their insights....very thoughtful insights into the topics we discuss.  It is apparent that several spend time studying their scriptures.

I went to the center early, and SK went home for awhile .... mostly to park the car....and then walk over.  But he likes to take a nap about that time too.

I did some cleaning at the center, and then did some more studying on my Danish.  While so occupied, one of our young men came....he is a student and he has a very good but involved job and he is the Elder's Quorum president in his ward.  He returned from his mission well over a year ago.  He is kind and thoughtful - and handsome!  A winning combination.  He is currently dating a drop-dead gorgeous young woman and they come to a lot of the goings-on with the YSAs.  They make a very attractive couple....and they complement each other as well in their kindness.  I would love to see them marry, but I guess we will wait and see.

A few others showed up early to hang out, raid the refrigerator and relax.  I turned on the CD player and pushed play....thinking whatever CD was in there would serenade us with soft Sunday music.  (I know it is Monday, but it is an institute of religion!)  What began playing was music from the sixties!!!!!  I laughed out loud....and looked for the cover.  "Soul Music" played through....but I am not sure anyone was impressed with it......but it sounded so familiar to me.

We had an excellent lesson from a guy that served in Greece and has been home for nearly a year.  He must have been a really good missionary....he often shares great quotes and ideas from his journal.  He took detailed notes whenever his mission president or a visiting general authority spoke.  So he recorded what they said and their references to scriptures and conference talks.  I have a feeling that his journal will serve him well for years to come.

A short activity brought peals of laughter.....they stood in a circle and held hands....while someone went into the next room.  Then they tied themselves up in all kinds of knots.  When the person came back in he had to direct them how to untie themselves.  It was pretty funny to watch.

We had an investigator this evening....he seemed like a very nice guy.  I hope he continues to come.

A meeting of the missionary and outreach committee after FHE produced some wonderful planning for future missionary work....one of the best plans presented was a musical fireside on a regular basis....mostly music with a very few short talks.  It would not be threatening, but it would be inspiring.  What's not to love about music?

A young woman who has not been a member for about a year and a half is nearing completion of submitting her papers to serve a mission, so we will probably find out where she is going in another month or so....perhaps about the time of general conference.  I am so happy and flattered that she has asked me to accompany her to the temple for her first visit.

We have two others who will be leaving within the next two months.  I am so excited for them to have the experience and growth that comes by serving in that unique way, but we will miss them.