Captains Log #2: MTC/training (more to come)

Hi family -- the BFINW:
Thought we'd drop you a quick note to let you know we are alive and happy and exhausted. 
 
We had a wonderful week at the MTC. We are through as of this evening. The training has been excellent. 

It is amazing to be with so many wonderful couples going through the same feeling as we are and to learn 

from them. We've really enjoyed seeing Aunt Kaye and Uncle Lonnie in action..  They are loved by the 

Brethren and continue to amaze.  
 
We've had training sessions this week by Elder Bednar and Elder Nelson, plus 7 of the Seventy and Bishop 

Causse.  Elder Bednar told us of a conversation he had had with Elder Maxwell about effective teaching. 

Elder Maxwell said teachers should: 1. Not be afraid of repitition, 2. Ask inspired questions, and 3. Typically 

but not always be a two-way dialogue.  Good advice.
 
We will forward to a few days at home before we depart.  Looking forward to the Temple tomorrow night 

and dinner on Sunday at Darin and Kali's.  Monday morning we depart.  We do need some help getting some 

boxes to our storage unit -perhaps a trailer would help.  Anyone have some time to help?
 
We had training on Temple Square today and had the opportunity to go with two Sisters and contact visitors 

on TS.  We ended up talking to a young man from China who is traveling around the USA. He was brought to 

tears as he watched the video on Heavenly Fathers plan.  He ended up giving me his email address and 

wants to keep in touch.  He said he felt something watching the video and talking to the four of us.  I bore my 

testimony to him.  Exciting for us!
We love you all very much. 
 
Love 
 
Dad ( and Mom)

Captians Log 1: Farewell #2 (new "home" ward)

Today we will be speaking in what is now called our "home" ward.  Its hard to call something home when you really have only been there a few times.  We have been welcomed warmly and have some new friends for sure.  But after being a part of our previous ward for over 30, nearly 40 years, 2 weeks just seems insufficient to call something home.

We will head to the MTC tomorrow.  It is surreal that all of this is happening now.  We've been planning and preparing and preparing some more to have all things in order, but now that it is officially here, it is surreal.  We look forward to the adventure we are heading into.

We were set apart on Wednesday (Jan. 8), by Elder Clarke of the seventy.  He was truly enjoyable to be around.  He was warm and friendly with all the family.  He made them all welcome.  He assured all of us of the blessings that come as we will be away on our mission.  We were able to share with the family and grandkids why we are doing this and other missions.  It was good to share our thoughts and feelings with them.