Our New York New York South Mission

Our Homecoming...Life After the Mission

2009-06-03T00:45:00.026-04:00

Where has the time gone?

We've been home from our NYNY South Mission for nearly four weeks and we've hardly had time to breathe, let alone remanesce! With grandchildren's choir concerts, soccer and flag football games, unloading and unpacking our van, bridal preparations, showers and temple marriage for our oldest grand daughter, dental and doctor appointments, attending to my aging mom whose husband passed away last Thursday...we feel like we've been living in the middle of a whirlwind.

Within two days, we reported to the Stake Council, were released as missionaries by our stake president and have recently spoken at a combined adult meeting about the importance and necessity of seniors filling the call to serve a couple mission.

What we haven't had yet is our own ward "homecoming" - or as we refer to it - our "non-homecoming." In our large, active ward we have had two missionary "farewells" in the last three weeks. There just hasn't been any time for us old folks!

So finally...

We will report on our mission June 14
Canyon View Ward
11:00 am
4720 West 10470 North
Highland

The whole world is invited.

There will be mingling and munching afterward at the De Paula home.

PS: The question is often asked of us - "Will you go on another mission?" We smile and answer in whispered tones - "Our children and grandchildren won't let us say the "M word" right now."

The Drive Back Home

2009-05-14T10:48:00.040-04:00

After 16 months in the wonderful New York New York South Mission it was time to return home. We loaded our Honda Odyssey with more than we brought, gave away all our food, many household items, donated clothing, cleaned our apartment, checked out, said good-bye to our neighbors and the missionaries and drove away. We took with us more than a van load. Our hearts and memories are full of love and mission experiences that will last through the eternities.

There's nothing like a senior couple mission!

Good-bye to the Mission

On May 5, 2009, we left our tiny 3-room pad in the Mid-Island Apartments in Bay Shore and headed west 2,225 miles to Highland, Utah on Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 pm.

We set our GPS, a friend we named "Myrtle," for home. Things were going well for about an hour as she directed us over six or seven freeways. Then we were abruptly ordered to exit the freeway and ended up stuck in Manhattan's rush-hour traffic on Lafayette Street in the middle of China Town!

Seems that the shortest route west is through the center of China Town, then to New Jersey through the 8,558-foot Holland Tunnel. Well, "Myrtle" knew what she was doing, even if the city planners didn't.

There's not much to capture in a picture over 455 miles of I-80 in Nebraska except the dramatic skies. We traveled 12 hours one day and gratefully zoomed through 2 1/2 states.

Multi-colored mountains are a dead give-away that we're getting close to home.

Winding roads, reservoirs, snow-capped mountains and dotted farms must mean we're nearing Park City - familiar landmarks close to home.

This picture has two peaks. One is the majestic snow-capped mountain peak. The other is the imposing peak of the Draper Temple spire nestled in the foothills 20 minutes from our home.

This is a sight we truly love and dearly missed - the majesty and refuge of the mountains that literally surround us in our lovely mountain valley.

Home was a sweet sight
We pulled into our driveway on Friday, May 8 at 5:00 pm. There were yellow balloons tied all around the yard. Tears of joy filled my eyes. The flowers and trees were beautiful, bright and welcoming. When the children and grand children came over the next two days it became complete.

The Lord has a way of preparing us for what we need to do...when we need to do it. It was right to be home again.

A Bay Shore Good-Bye

2009-05-12T21:39:00.026-04:00

Bay Shore Memories

WOW! Look at all those missionaries. We are so honored to have served with this group of marvelous young people. They have been so kind to us "older folk" that got in their midst. They have invited us to their activities, meetings and get-to-gethers. We love them dearly.

Brother Macke - Kind, devoted, faithful, generous, prepared - just a few words that describe our friend and Institute class member Brother Macke.

The de Paulas (with Tiffany and Paige) & the de Rosas - The de Rosas are just some of those people that you love instantly. He is Stake President. She is Stake YW President. They are parents of three great children and recently one new grand daughter. We love them.

Jessica & Caitlyn adopted me as the substitute "Grandma" - and that was fine with me!

Good Food. Good Friends. Good Memories.

Lilly loved the ward choir. "Sister de Paula, who's going to lead the choir now," 11-year-old Lilly said with a bit of sadness in her words. She has an amazing singing voice!

The Sinischalci Family - This is a very active family with five darling children. Brother Sinischalci (not in this picture) is the ward mission leader and does a wonderful job of encouraging leadership and membership to be missionaries. Also pictured is Kristian, a recent convert.

Sister Cruz - This dear sister is the Gospel Essentials teacher in the ward, is very well-read, and is very much service oriented. She blesses many lives.

Young people are wonderful! Sister Frodsham, Mereena, Daneilla & Luis have a nice visit together. Luis was baptised four days after we left to return home.

Sister Lucas - I really got to know Sister Lucas best the last couple months of our mission. Although she was in the RS presidency the entire time and did a wonderful job, it was in the Temple Preparation class that I felt her beautiful spirit shine. She now looks forward to doing temple work with her sister for their entire family.

Sister Mehmedi - We count as one of the greatest blessings of our mission to have met Sister Mehmedi, the Bay Shore Ward Relief Society President. This saintly woman lived compelely the Gospel of Jesus Christ. What an example to everyone.

Sister Rivas - This dear sister serves as the secretary of the RS and things are done right!

Sister Davidson - This lovely convert of five years is a true Christian woman! She serves without measure, loves without reservation and was a devoted member of our Institute class. Thank you for the sweet Bay Shore gifts Sister Davidson.

The Davis family - The Bay Shore Ward would not function without the Davis'. These good people live part time in Utah and part time in Bay Shore to be near their daughter and her family. While there, they help support the ward with rides to Church, assignments and other assistance.

The Denoff family - "Peachie" as she is known is Sunday School president, and while her husband is not a member, he is very supportive and comes to most church activities.

The Ertle Family - What great strengths these two are to Bay Shore Ward with their leadership skills. Sister Ertle has been gosple doctrine teacher and is now the RS president and Bro Ertle serves in the YM organization.

The Koszyk family - They have raised a family of seven children, are hard workers, leaders in the ward and generous, faithful people.

The Mercado family - We had several dinners at their home, just loved Sister Mercado's RS lessons, super kids and the tender, loving parents completed the Temple Preparation class.

The Rathgeber family - They invited us to spend Thanksgiving at their home on the beach. He is the bishop, she sang in my ward choir, and they have five grown children. What wonderful people!

The Rivas family - We've exchanged meals in each other's homes, Brother Rivas completed my Temple Preparation class, and was our personal van mechanic.

The Waszkiewiez family - These two are stalwarts in the ward, serve meals to the missionaries and are an examplary young couple.

The Yankus family - Sister Yankus is an attorney who generously helps ward members, was just called to the RS presidency, and encourages her nephew to attend church activities.

We loved all of our assignments. We loved all of our experiences. But it was the people - the wonderful people we met and served that will remain in our hearts and in our prayers forever. That's the way it's meant to be in the Lord's great plan as we help connect all His children together.

Tiffany and Paige "Do" New York

2009-05-11T18:29:00.026-04:00

April 29-May 3 Tiffany & Paige "Do" NYC

It was so fun for us to have our daughter Tiffany and her oldest daughter Paige visit just before the end of our mission in New York. They wasted not even one minute! The plane landed at Laguardia, we picked them up, parked the car at the mission office and headed to the Woodhaven subway stop to dash to Manhattan.

Welcome to NYC. Now jump on a subway!

The rain did not slow them down or dampen their smiles!

The Dumpling House is our family favorite in China Town.

One of 12-year-old Paige's requests was to visit the Statue of Liberty.

The Manhattan skyline was a great backdrop for Mom and daughter photo.

The Westbury Gardens and Mansion (former home of the John Phipps family(1874-1958)) may have been one of the biggest thrills of the trip for mother and daughter duo. The massive home and endless, sculptured gardens were simply magnificent!

We spotted the male and female ducks below swimming on the pond, but as we approached, the male became agitated, the female fluttered her wings and the little ducklings swam out. Then they all headed for the opposite shore for protection.

This gorgeous mansion has been the setting for many movies including Love Story, North by Northwest, American Gangster, Wolf, Hitch, Cruel Intentions, and others. The first time I went I thought it looked familiar. This time I asked.

Paige was enchanted by the sprawling beauty of the 200 acres of gardens. It was heaven!

We spend nearly three hours here and wished we could have had at least three times that long. In the summer there are festivals of all kinds. We attended a Mozart Festival in August last year. Delightful!

What could be more fun for kids than a full-size play house? Paige thought this one would have been just perfect for the Phipps four children - and herself!

Besides touring around Long Island, Manhattan and the Statue Island cruise, our visitors enjoyed shopping on Canal Street, Teddy Roosevelt's Summer home at Sagamore Hill, a trip to the American Girl Store including the special dinner and the Saturday matinee performance of "Wicked."

It was a dream trip for a Mom and her adolescent daughter. And we were delighted they came.

"Guess Who's Coming...or Going to Dinner"

2009-04-28T22:08:00.013-04:00

I had invited the four sister missionaries in our area to dinner for Tuesday, April 28 at 5:00 pm. It had been on the calendar for about a week.

Unbeknown to me, just this morning, Elder de Paula told the Rivas family to be ready at 4:00pm and we would take them out to dinner.

Oops!

Isn't there something in the missionary handbook about communicating with your companion. Oh, that may just be for those young, pliable, communicative elders?

The Rivas family is on the left - Frank holding Frankie & Marlene (behind), Sisters Frodsham and Mullens; (back) Elder de Paula, Sisters Burton, Brimhall and de Paula.

It all worked our just fine. We invited them to come to our apartment. I marinated chicken and steak and cooked up loads of stir fry loads vegetables and served it with spinach salad with Mandarin oranges, crusty sesame bread and lemon bars for dessert. The Rivas' also brought beautiful Colombian pastries.

We all had an enjoyable time together and Frank's wife, Marlene, seemed pleased that the Brentwood Spanish-speaking sisters were here since she's still working on her English. Three-year-old Frankie communicates in both languages, and was, of course, the center of attention.

The evening couldn't have turned out any better.

Thanks for your Kindness

2009-04-28T21:45:00.007-04:00

Sometimes in some places with some people you make a connection. It doesn't really matter the age span or the background differences or the varied interests or anything else - you just make a friend. And it's good.

Deanna and I had several phone conversations over the months and shared some profound ideas and thoughts. I think we both got some good understanding and insights.

On Monday evening we were invited to their brand new, newly decorated and very adorable apartment, as their very first guests, for a wonderful "going away" dinner for us. It was not only delicious, but great fun to be with them. Who would dream that young people would be caught dead with old seniors like us? Thanks Bryant and Deanna!

Bay Shore Ward's Newest Member

2009-04-28T20:47:00.013-04:00

Congratulations Oscar!

Oscar with his two children Jennifer 13 and Chris 6, and Erika with her daughter, Kaylie 3, enjoy Oscar's baptism day Saturday April 25.

Oscar and Erika have been dating for two years during which time Erika, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as been trying to get Oscar to have the missionaries over to teach him. It wasn't until he met Sisters Frodsham and Burton that the Spirit touched to him. They are engaged to be married and all three children are delighted. They will live in Oscar's home in the Bay Shore ward after they marry.

"These sisters are just amazing," said Ocsar at his baptismal service. He bore a powerful testimony of the truthfulness of the gospel and the Book of Mormon. And he also told of how he thought he had been a good man in his life, but now he noticed ways he wanted to improve and people he wanted to exemplify.

Many friend and family from Erika's ward were in attendance for support and to participate in the service. Ward members brought refreshments for a social after the baptism. Oscar's daughter, Jennifer (in denim jacket) and her friend Destiny (in yellow shirt) are taking the missionary lessons now and are attending Church regularly.

Chris waits patiently while his dad cuts the adorable CTR (Choose The Right) cake made my a member of our ward.

Oscar was baptized by Erika's uncle and confirmed Sunday in Sacrament meeting by Elder de Paula. President Bennion gave a few closing remarks at the baptismal service and mentioned what a great contribution Oscar and his family will make to this Church. This was a good weekend for Bay Shore.

On The Way to the Manhattan Temple

2009-04-27T07:00:00.015-04:00

Woodhaven Subway Station

The Manhattan Temple is not in our mission, but our young elders and sisters are allowed to go two times during their missions - at the mid point and just before the end of their missions. Senior missionaries do not have the same rules as young missionaries and can go whenever time permits. The young people always give us new life...and sometimes wear us out!

We made the hour drive in from Bay Shore to the mission office where we met the sixteen missionaries we would escort to the temple and walked to the Woodhaven subway station to catch the R train.

Click to watch and hear our R train coming:

Teaching on the Train
Elder Jeong never stopped being a missionary for even one moment, going to or returning from the missionary temple trip. He passed out cards, initiated conversations, smiled at everyone, shared pamphlets, had discussions and even got help when he couldn't speak the right dialect. What a missionary!

I saw Elder Jeong (above) conversing with a woman for about 15 minutes, explaining something, showing her materials, writing information down, and giving her a card. Several seats down in the same car, there was an Oriental woman watching the entire thing, who seemed interested in Elder Jeong and his presentation. I watched with interest.

When the first woman exited the train, the second woman (above) got up, hurried over, sat in the empty seat and began talking to this missionary. After only a few sentences, Elder Jeong stood and went to the front of the train where some other missionaries were seated.

Elder Jeong returned with Elder Ng. I assumed there had most likely been a dialect or language problem, and that Elder Jeong knew right where to go for help. Now everyone appeared happy and content. With 184 nations represented within our mission boundaries and several languages spoken among the missionaries, there's a chance the right language or dialect can be found.

It was a beautiful experience to watch this drama unfold on the way to the temple - a dedicated young elder fulfilling his purpose by "inviting others to come unto Christ by helping them receive the restored gospel..."

At the Manhattan Temple

2009-04-27T06:00:00.011-04:00

The sixteen missionaries we escorted on Friday, April 24 were celebrating the halfway points in their missions.

Manhattan Anniversary Temple Trip

Included in this anniversary temple trip (in no particular order) are the following Sisters: Heininge, Kevan, Frodsham; and Elders: Goodman, Karl, Rhodes, Wallace, Baker, Carcel, Gabrielson, Haggard, Jeong, Mendbayer, Ng, Peterson, Stone.

Looking up at Angel Moroni

We brought the missionaries up from the subway on Broadway where the first thing they spot is the temple. We could hear all their oohs and aahs! We arrived in plenty of time for them to take a few pictures before entering to serve in this beautiful edifice.

Looking out through Stained Glass Doors

When the temple session was over, we exited through the beautiful stained glass doors, taking with us a bit of the celestial - a greater commitment to serve, to work hard, to love more, to be better missionaries. It was good to be in the House of the Lord.

"A True New York Experience - The Hot Dog Stand"

"I could be starving right to death!"

"There's no graceful way to eat a drippy hotdog!"

"How many of these things do we get?"
After a quick bite we headed one long block east on 66th street and there we were at Central Park on one of the most beautiful days of the year! The missionaries were thrilled to be able to see one of the most famous sites in New York - or in the entire country for that matter.

After the Manhattan Temple

2009-04-27T05:00:00.006-04:00

After the Anniversary Temple Trip, when both time and weather permit, the escorting senior couple have the option of taking the missionaries on a brief walk through Central Park. Everything was right, so we made the decision to go. For most, this would be a once in a lifetime experience. They were elated!

A Walk Through Central Park

The day couldn't have been more beautiful!

After days of heavy rains, people could enjoy Spring in New York!

The blossoms were bright and the trees were beginning to leaf.

Blue skies and green grasses seemed endless in the Park.

As we walked, we heard the rhythmic sound of this jazz trio.

There was plenty of space for visitors to find the sun and the solitude of Central Park.

And here in the Park, a gentleman from Orem spotted our name tags and struck up a conversation with Elder de Paula. An additional coincidence is that his own son, Elder Dan Kim, now at Cambridge University in England, was in the New York New York South Mission a few years ago. Small world!

The missionaries were amazed to learn that Central Park covers over 800 acres and has many natural wooded areas.

These missionaries loved Central Park...almost as much as we loved being with them. We've been to the Park many times, so we didn't need to see it. We enjoyed watching them. We watched people watching them. There is something unique about them. They truly are different. They are clean. They are set apart. They are the Lord's Chosen to do His work in spreading the gospel on the earth...and they do it well.

The purpose of the Anniversary Temple Trip is to give missionaries the opportunity to serve in the House of the Lord, to renew their covenants and to gain strength and perspective for their continued service in the mission field. That mission was truly accomplished.

"If you feed them...they will come"

2009-04-26T21:43:00.012-04:00

Elders Law, Merrill, Maughan and Evans grab an appetizer before dinner

Yes, if you feed them, they will come. And who might "them" be? The elders, of course! They came to dinner on Thursday the 23rd...and we loved having them over. When I invited them to come and have dinner with us before our mission ends, one of them mentioned that they were ready for some regular "Utah-Idaho" food. Somehow I kinda' knew what he meant.

There was a request for "funeral potatoes." Would that have been from one of the two Idaho elders? With those, the pork chops, carrots and broccoli with garlic bread seemed to help fill up these "starving servants." They also enjoyed a dessert of sugar cookie cake with mandarin oranges, fresh strawberries and ice cream - topped with whipped cream.

Elders Lead in Bay Shore and Brentwood

These great elders are very dedicated and give countless service to others - in and out of the Church. We comment frequently that the two wards in our building - the Bay Shore English-speaking and the Brentwood Spanish-speaking -would not be able to function properly were it not for the full time missionaries. Both bishops rely heavily on these young men for the smooth operation of their respective wards.

We are honored to know them.

Zone Conference Lunch - revisited at Woodside

2009-04-22T16:45:00.009-04:00

Woodside LDS Chapel

Because of a family situation, the senior couple who was to provide the Woodside Zone Conference lunch today was not able to and asked us to take over. We did a "repeat performance" of last Wednesday's menu for different zones in a different venue. And it was every bit as fun! Today we planned for 50 missionaries and had the help of senior couples Elder & Sister Bulloch and Elder & Sister Smith.

"Thumbs Up Lunch"

We hadn't remembered that there were so many Chinese speaking missionaries in these two zones. In fact, many are wonderful native Chinese elders from all over the world. You should have seen the look on their faces when they saw - first in the food line - two enormous trays of rice! Then when they spotted the sweet and sour chicken with vegetables their joy was almost audible...almost:-) There were numerous very polite "thank you I love this!" statements and many more "oh my gosh, this is amazing" statements. Bottom line - missionaries love food and are so grateful.

"Called to Serve"

President Bennion asked the fifty missionaries to stand, and as a "thank you" for our preparing lunch for them today and in honor of our departure in two weeks, he asked them to sing one verse of "Called to Serve." Their faces, their voices and their spirits were clear, and simple and inspiring - just like the gospel they proclaim.

We will not easily forget what we saw and felt today.

On Our Way to Institute Meeting...

2009-04-22T16:07:00.009-04:00

I like taking pictures. I like capturing the moment. Even when "the moment" happens to be moving down the Long Island Expressway at 50 miles an hour...in the rain trying to make to our Institute training meeting on time.

So I captured the moment through our dirty, spotted windshield.

It was a bright, colorful truck in an otherwise dreary morning, rumbling westward through heavy Queens traffic toward Manhattan.

The truck itself was adorable. The logo - very clever.

"Apple & Eve 100% Juice - Be Pure Be Fruitful"

Only in New York.

A Family Home Evening from New Zealand

2009-04-21T23:48:00.015-04:00

Fun and Games and Feeling the Spirit

Melanie went home to New Zealand just after Christmas to be with her family. Her father suddenly passed away and none of us were sure she would be back to New York to visit the old gang. She came for four days and made arrangements to get together with her friends YSA friends from Stony Brook Institute for an evening before flying out to live in Minnesota for the summer.

Below Melanie, Diana & Anjela listen and smile

Landon, Chandi & Ryan watch and enjoy

Rob and Tate think and write

Chandi & Diana try their skill at the straw game

Melanie introduced us to a couple get-to-know-you games and then we had a nice review of the recent General Conference - our impressions and new insights. These young single adults know how to have fun, are deep thinkers and want to be obedient. What better combination could there possibly be?

We then went into the kitchen where Melanie had biscuits (cookies) from New Zealand which everyone would bite off one end and dip the other end in hot chocolate. Then through the cookie, suck up the hot chocolate and finally nibble away the cookie. Watching it was interesting, but no thanks! I had my two biscuits with cold milk.

Melanie with Elder & Sister de Paula

We have great memories of escorting this darling gal to the Manhattan Temple November 22, 2008. Tonight we hugged about ten times and got phone numbers, addresses, email, and Facebook information... just to be sure.

I think we're all covered!

David's Doctors of Musical Arts Recital

2009-04-21T22:41:00.020-04:00

David has been one of our treasured students at the Stony Brook Institute program for the entire time we have been here on Long Island. He is a returned missionary, a student of the scriptures, a fine leader and has now earned a PHD in music from Stony Brook University.

An Afternoon of Beautiful Viola Music

Click "play button" to hear a portion of the Sonata.

David invited us to his final Doctors of Musical Arts recital Monday afternoon at the university. The video is my recording of David playing the viola assisted by Winnie on the piano performing the lst Movement of "Sonata for Viola and Piano" by George Rochberg. His intent is to teach as well as perform in a symphony orchestra. He will achieve success in both.

Institute Director Hosts Farewell Luncheon

2009-04-21T21:46:00.013-04:00

Bangerters Host Farewell Luncheon

Around the table clockwise are President Cory & Sister Gayle Bangerter, Sister & Elder de Paula, Elder & Sister Smith and Sister & Elder West. There has been a bi-monthly Institute Training meeting with other senior couple our mission here in New York. We have received instruction, shared teaching ideas, discussed scriptures, and refined teaching.

Today was a less a day for those kinds of things and more for a social and a farewell. But the end of June, all three missionary couple will be through with their missions and going home.

Taunting aromas from the kitchen wafted through the hallways and into our meeting room as we put the final touches on the spring semester. It was pretty hard to discuss summer classes and the Wednesday evening forum when pulled pork, beans with cheese and salsa was waiting just around the corner.

On the table where we sat to eat were adorable ceramic "Big Apple" napkin holders for each couple along with a kind note from the Bangerters. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and your very tasty food! We'll miss you...but will see you, Bangerters, in Utah. The Bangerters have been employed by the Church Education System for 36 years and have lived, taught and supervised all over the world. They will return to Alpine to retire in just over a year.

Harper's Blessing Day

2009-04-20T13:09:00.000-04:00

Happy Family Event

A baby brings a lot of love to a family. On April 19, baby Harper was given a name and a Priesthood blessing by her daddy, Cade. She is held here by her mommy, Ashley, our niece. They are dotting, adorable parents with lots of extended family who offer plenty of help with Harper.

Among those enjoying the lovely event and luncheon on Sunday were some of our family - Nicole & Frank, Tiffany and her children and Matt & Rachelle.

Just this month, we'll miss several birthdays and other important family events, as we have for the last fifteen months. We keep reminding ourselves that serving a mission is indeed a sacrifice - " giving up something good for something better." We know our family has been blessed in our absence.

Friday, Food, Fun and "Family"

2009-04-18T09:08:00.013-04:00

Fridays are always days with "our kids" at the church for district meeting. We're not in charge. They are - and what great leaders and teachers they are, teaching from "Preach My Gospel."

After the meeting there was a "secret" plan to take Sister Burton to lunch for her birthday. That was a good idea, but these young missionaries are allotted barely enough money each month to buy the basics, if that, let alone any extras. So Elder de Paula and I decided to treat them all to a Birthday Lunch. The looks on their faces was worth more than a fortune!

We're going to miss these two great sisters when we leave - Sister Frodsham and Sister Burton.

Here at our apartment, as Sister Burton blows out the candles on her birthday "cake" she asked "why three?" Didn't I read somewhere that three meant perfect?

An ice cream cake roll is our own children's favorite birthday cake. Our kids always get to choose what flavors go inside - and they do get creative! I made this one for Sister Burton's birthday. It has a thin layer of strawberry jam and is filled with vanilla ice cream, and is dusted with powdered sugar and candy sprinkles. She love it. It's just a touch of home for me to make one here in the mission field.

It was a good day - celebrating life and love and missionary work and family, and food!

Zone Conference and Feeding the Multitude

2009-04-16T22:39:00.054-04:00

Long Island Zone Conference at Plainview Stake Center

We know that "man shall not live by bread alone" and that's why there's zone conference every six weeks in the mission field. We will all remember that missionaries are generally young men between the ages of 19 and 21 as well as somewhat more mature 21-23 year-old sister missionaries. It is important to re-charge their spiritual batteries, re-kindle their flames of faith and re-program their spiritual selves. President and Sister Bennion are perfect at this! They have the right combination of love and skill to reach and motivate the missionaries. It is a wonderful time or teaching and learning.

That being said, it is also true that a great deal of time, expense and planning goes into preparing physical food to satify the appetite and give those same wonderful, spiritual missionaries strength and energy to keep going in their missionary endeavors. Sometimes Elder de Paula and I get that assignment - with help from other senior couples, the Comers, the Smiths and the Roushs' - and we just love to do it!

FOOD, FOOD, FOOD!

MY CHALLENGE
I don't know why I like to do this but I do. I love the challenge of feeding a multitude on a shoestring. Not only that, I add more pressure to myself by preparing a menu I've never done before. Is that a sign of something? At my age it's probably senility. At any rate, this time I thought I would do meatballs with sweet & sour over rice. But the day before the conference while at Costco to purchase the bulk food items, there were no meatballs. None - not a meatball! (That must be a New York thing. I can't imagine that happening in my state!)

MY DILEMMA

Well...I stared endlessly at the frozen food cases hoping for inspiration and a calculator. After all...I was spending the tithing funds of the Church and had to be very careful to stay within the budget. Chicken nuggets. That was it! Four bags would do and I'd make my own homemade sweet and sour sauce and add 5 or 6 bags of frozen sliced peppers and serve it over oven-stemmed rice.

I have to say it was a huge hit! The main dish, the salad and corn, the breads, the cakes - all worked out just great. President and Sister Bennion were delighted and I figure if they are pleased... it worked:-)

LUNCHTIME FUN

"HOW SWEET IT IS"
These elders are all smiles with giant-size portions of food, packages from home and socializing a bit between zone conference sessions at the Plainview Stake Center. Mission Zone Conference happens within a week or two after every transfer - after old missionaries leave, new missionaries come and new assignments are made in the mission.

It's hard to tell which is "sweeter" - the packages sent to the mission office for the missionaries to pick up today or the three kinds of cake from which to choose for dessert.

Luckily some missionaries got both at zone conference today!

TESTIMONY AND GOOD-BYES
President Bennion had asked Elder de Paula and me to take 10-12 minutes during the afternoon session to bear our testimonies in the general session since this would be the last zone conference of our mission. It was a sweet and tender time for both of us to share our feelings of love for the Lord and his Church. Elder de Paula testified specifically about the power the scriptures can have in our daily lives. Through using those powerful example and applying the scriptures to ourselves, we can protect ourselves from the buffetings of Satan.

My testimony was a witness that through faith in Jesus Christ we can literally change our perspective and see ourselves as we "want" to be. As it asks in Alma 5 - "Can you imagine?" "Can ye think of being saved?" "Can ye feel so now?" In today's vernacular it is called positive mental imaging (PMI). "Can you imagine to yourselves that ye hear the voice of the Lord saying unto you in that day: Come unto me ye blessed..." This empowers us to forge through life's difficult times by focusing on the broader perspective. That's the beauty of the Gospel.

"Thanks for the Memories - Stony Brook Class!

2009-04-16T20:42:00.036-04:00

THE JOURNEY
When we began teaching an Institute (Religion) class for the 18-30 year-old age group at Stony Brook University, we had one student. That was 15 months ago. Things have really changed.

THE STUDENTS
Row 1: Christina, Bruna, JaNae, Anjela, Michelle, Vania
Row 2: Elder de Paula, David, Krystal, Joann, Sister de Paula
Row 3: Landon, Kristian & Rob (Tate left before the picture)

THE PROCESS
We went searching, calling, asking, spreading the word, praying, looking up records and slowly the program grew. Each of the 35+ who have come and gone through the program have left an impression on us. Some have left for missions, temple marriages, job relocations, advanced degrees, etc. We have grown attached to each one. We love teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to these amazing young adults who will be the leaders of tomorrow in the Church.

THE LAST CLASS
Our farewell class and dinner was Tuesday April 14 at the Terryville Church. It was a better environment in which to hold a dinner than in the stark classroom on campus. Elder de Paula finished teaching the marvelous Book of Revelation and afterward we had a sit-down dinner in the multi-purpose room and visited much longer than usual.

Kristian's 22nd birthday happened to fall on our last class of the year so we had a birthday party for every one's birthday with three different cakes to suit any taste. Happy Birthday Everyone!

THE DINNER
"Sister de Paula what are we eating?" It must be that "funeral potatoes" is a Wasatch Front dish because most of the kids in our class had never heard of them and went crazy over them. Of course all the gals wanted the recipe and the guys just wanted to take the leftovers home! With the potato dish, we served baked chicken breasts and a huge green salad and rolls. This was our treat to the students. Our coordinater would die if we turned in every one of our expense receipts for this activity, so we'll only submit the ones for the "funeral" potatoes. Hm-mmm.

Funeral potatoes and Chicken Breast
THE PROMISE
What great memories we have from our experiences with "our Stony Brook kids." We exchanged email and phone numbers and promised to connect on Facebook...and in person in our back yard for a summer BBQ or in the nearby canyon for winter snowboarding!

"Our Memory Walls - Reminders of People"

2009-04-16T15:22:00.012-04:00

Little by little we're getting things used up, taken down, thrown away or stored safely away. The memorabilia which has had a place in our hearts and on our bedroom walls is now safely packed away to make the 2,222-mile trip west with us in 19 days and 17 hours.

We have quite an array of items - everything from birthday cards from our children and our friends to grand children's art work to notes from friends back home to wedding and birth announcements to ticket stubs from Metropolitan Opera and Broadway productions to Church and missionary meeting agendas, and many, many more. They are all physical reminders of the of people - people who make such a difference in our lives. People we love - new and old - people we plan on associating with through the eternities, thanks to the glorious Gospel of Jesus Christ. We count our blessings.

The Beauty of Easter Sunday

2009-04-13T13:01:00.026-04:00

It was, indeed, a beautiful Easter Sunday. The fact that we were both asked to speak in Sacrament Meeting had given us an opportunity to focus intently on the real, spiritual meaning of Easter for the entire week. Without knowing what each other was speaking on, we both shaped our messages around using the power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ in our lives. We focused on four aspects of the atonement (grace):

Through grace every person born will be resurrected
This grace is an enabling power that allows men and women to enjoy eternal life
Through grace we can repent of our sins and receive strength to do good works
Grace is the divine means of help or strength during trials, sorrows, afflictions and adversity to do what we are literally unable to do on our own

Most people are pretty clear about the first aspect of the atonement - that they will be resurrected, or live again after they die - somehow, somewhere. The second aspect is a bit less clear, or maybe completely unknown. It allows that we have the opportunity to live as families and progress eternally - conditional on our righteous choices in mortality.

The first two aspects of the atonement are realized once we pass from this life. The next two points are to help us here and now - in this life.

The third aspect of the atonement enables us to repent and become better people through faith in Jesus Christ. The fourth aspect is perhaps the least understood, and therefore, the least utilized of all. It is an enabling power that we can, through our faith in the Savior, use "to make us more than we are" against all kinds of struggles. We can literally receive peace, strength, comfort, direction, help and companionship from the Lord through His atonement - here and now. Those blessings await us by calling on Him in mighty prayer.

The Easter message is beautiful and we should be celebrated all year.

Click the Play button to watch this video about the Savior:

New Companions in Bay Shore

2009-04-13T12:03:00.004-04:00

We are so lucky to be able to keep Elder Maughan in our area and also to welcome Elder Merrill from Rexburg. These two are a great team and seem to work well together in just the short time they have been assigned. We look forward to getting see the fruits of their labors before in this wonderful area of the New York New York South Mission. Our first social outing with the new companionship was Easter dinner.

Easter Dinner Dessert

The elder and sister missionaries, as well as us "older" couple missionaries were invited to Sister Cruz' home...again...for a wonderful Easter dinner. My assignment was dessert. She goes to so much work to serve us - whom she calls her "angels" and does so because she claims she needs the blessing she receives from doing so. What a sweet sister. (See March 26, 2009 "Becoming a Citizen")

Last Bay Shore Institute Class

2009-04-10T18:27:00.026-04:00

Good-bye to Bay Shore Class

There were tears and hugs and promises to get together again. It was the final meeting of our New Testament class in Bay Shore, although we will be around for three more weeks. These are people we claim as family - Mike, Glen, Deanna, Everett, Kristian (by Sister de Paula) Adela and Shirley (by Elder de Paula). Some are life-long members who live part time in New York. Two are converts since we arrived here. Others are converts of various years' time. All are dear friends and precious children of the Lord.

What a surprise to see these beautiful flowers and a pillow embroidered with "Teaching is Love" - gifts to us from these thoughtful, loving class members whom we truly love...and will greatly miss!

Final Class Celebration Dinner

The class treated us to a local buffet for our final dinner together. We had a great time socializing, visiting with our newest investigator, and even handing out a few pass-along card to inquisitive spectators in the restaurant. I even had occasion to invite some of them to church on Easter Sunday:-)

Sister Missionaries Find Louis

And a very nice touch on the evening was meeting Louis, a new investigator whom the sister missionaries found while tracking one day. He was very interested in finding out more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and met them at the church on Thursday evening - the same time we held our final New Testament study class.

We have high hopes for this young man!

A Farewell to the USMMA Institute Class!

2009-04-08T15:05:00.014-04:00

Welcome Aboard!

We always did feel welcome at the United States Merchant Marine Academy at King's Point, New York. Our first drive there was in January of 2008 where we met Brock and David - two wonderful young members of the Church attending the academy.

Brock then spend duty at sea, David went on a mission, Garrett returned from sea duty, and later Jon and Josh arrived as new plebes in July of 2008. Josh will leave for his 2-year mission in July. There have been a few other students and visitors throughout our experience there including Charles, a teacher at the academy and Stephanie - Garrett's "good" friend, who came to the Island as a nanny.

Above, Elder de Paula is leading the final discussion of the last few chapter of the Book of Revelation with Garrett, Brook and Josh participating. These young men take time out of a very rigid schedule to come to Institute class to learn, to feel the Spirit and to get a little homemade treat. Josh got to choose the refreshments for the evening which were Chocolate Chip Brownies & milk and apple slices. These guys are very adept at reading and munching!

Elder Douglass & Elder Edwards

Elder Douglass and Elder Edwards have attended our classes by assignment from President Weidler, president of the singles branch, to get ideas to stimulate activity among the several less active members of the Church who attend the academy. We have had a few discussions on possible approaches they could use. These two great elders have been both a physical and spiritual asset to our Institute classes.

The assignment to teach at the USMMA has been a part of our mission experience that we will remember with great fondness. We love all of these young men! We told them Monday evening we do not want to end our relationship with them and that "We do come to weddings!"

Engaged to Be Married...Forever!

2009-04-06T23:02:00.029-04:00

Congratulations to Scott & Hillary!

We are thrilled that our beautiful granddaughter, Hillary and her fiancé, Scott have chosen to be married for time and for all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple May 23, 2009.

These two have been friends for many years and dated before Scott's mission to the Massachusetts Boston Mission. He is now attending university toward a degree in digital media and is also holding down a job. Hillary is a talented artist and is working and studying at UVU. Between work and school schedules, they have been cleaning, painting and preparing an apartment where they will live after their marriage.

There is nothing more beautiful than a worthy young man or woman who marries the right person, at the right time, in the right place. And it's particularly wonderful when it happens to be our first granddaughter!

We are so proud of Hillary & Scott.

Memories at Conference Time

2009-04-06T16:45:00.022-04:00

Seeing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and hearing their music at Conference gave us another moment of appreciation for the time that Elder de Paula and I served there for eighteen years. It was a glorious assignment. Even then, we were set apart missionaries - complete with name tags. We loved every wonderful, difficult, glorious, busy, amazing thing about those years! There are many ways to serve in this Church, and we truly love what we are doing now.

Newest Apostle - Elder Neil L. Andersen

I have a soft spot in my heart for Elder Andersen. While we were serving our mission at the MTC in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Elder Anderson was President of the Brazil South Area. But even before that, Elder Andersen took part in a blessing of healing for me. Years ago when the Tabernacle Choir was recording music for the video "The Testaments of One Shepherd and One Fold," I had a serious health concern.

At a break in the recording session, a friend from the choir who knew my situation asked me to walk with her as we ate ate our light snack. Momentarily, I looked up and was standing before Elder Richard G. Scott who was there to over-see the recording session. I could barely breathe! He asked what I needed and looked me in the eyes for 20-30 seconds, then, said "I think you need a blessing. Would you like me to give you one?" The two general authorities later gave me a blessing of healing - an experience that changed my life.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the only true and complete church on the earth today. It brings comfort and peace to our lives and assures us of a life after we leave this one. It answers all of life's questions.

Do you have questions about our Church?

LDS Conference in the Mission Field

2009-04-06T16:35:00.004-04:00

Crowds gather on Temple Square in Salt Lake City while we gather at the giant screen.

This was our view at the 179th Annual Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. What a thrill it was to be with many dear friends from the ward and wonderful missionaries as we were spiritually fed by the inspired talks of the general authorities. We could have listened for many more hours!

Elder Evans arrived in the mission a week ago and is working with Elder Law in the Spanish-speaking Brentwood ward which meets in the Bay Shore building. They make a great team and will be found shooting baskets on P-day:-)

A few of us ward members provided lunch on both days of the Conference to feed those who attended the satellite broadcast at the church. I made chicken enchiladas, Texas sheet cake, vegetable beef and lentil stew, garlic bread, and brought a big bowl of fruit. Many hands pitched in to help.
Sisters Frodsham and Burton were hoping some of those investigators and less active who they have been teaching would come to the church to attend conference. They were blessed to have a few people in attendance.

Again...we were spiritually and physically fed.

Changes, Transfers and New Missionaries

2009-04-06T16:30:00.007-04:00

One thing you can always count on is change. Friday at District meeting, we met the new arrivals to the New York New York South Mission on March 30 - Elder Evans and Sister Mullens. They are getting acclimated to their surroundings, their companions, the assignments and missionary work in general. We know they will be wonderful additions to their areas.

Meet the New District

These are the great young missionaries who will be our "going home kids!" there will be no more transfers until after we're out the door and on the road headed west. Let's introduce everyone. Front row (l to r) Sisters Mullens, Frodsham, Burton, de Paula & Elder de Paula. Middle row (l to r) Elders Carcel, Powell, Powell (new district leader), Maughan & Sister Brimhall. Back row (l to r) Evans, Law, Oliverson & Carimia.

We meet new missionaries and remember the ones who have left with great fondness and love. Each one has a place in our hearts and our lives.

"The Family is Ordained of God"

2009-04-01T21:16:00.009-04:00

"Husband and wife have a solemn responsibility to love and care for each other and for their children."

There is a family in our ward here in the mission that brings to mind a phrase from the Church's The Family: A Proclamation to the World

"Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities."

There is a love and peace in their home, in their hearts and in their countenances. They treat each other with tenderness and respect. They love the Savior and serve in Church assignments without hesitation. They are without guile. They live simple lives and embrace all people. They share the gospel with others. They have diverse talents and share them freely.

We love the La Fleur family.

Happy Birthday To You...Garrett!

2009-04-01T20:56:00.008-04:00

Garrett is one of "our kids" and what a fine young man he is! As his birthday treats, he chose fresh pineapple and rice crispie treats. You got it fella'!

He has been a stalwart in our Institute class, having arrived from sea duty a few months after we were assigned to teach in January of 2008. Garrett served a mission and will graduate in June from the US Merchant Marine Academy and will begin a maritime career with the Coast Guard. He has a good understanding of the scriptures and is a real asset in the class discussions. We really get attached to these young people.

Thanks, Garrett, for making our time at the Academy so rich and memorable!

"Preparing to Enter the Holy Temple"

2009-03-29T21:42:00.024-04:00

Temple Preparation Class

Class members are (seated) Ron, Crispin, Frank, (standing) Maria, Jim, Toni, Jeanette, (back) Sister dePaula, Patricia and Luis.

Today our temple preparation class in the Bay Shore ward just completed the fifth of seven lessons. We feel deep gratitude as we discuss making covenants and receivings further blessings from on High. It has indeed been a blessing in my life - and one of my choicest missionary assignments - to teach this class. I dearly love each of these people.

The Salt Lake LDS Temple

These wonderful members have learned many important truths:

We must be prepared before we go to the temple.
We must be worthy before we go to the temple.
There are restrictions and conditions set.
They were established by the Lord and not by man.
The Lord has every right and authority to direct that matters relating to the temple be kept sacred and confidential.

I will be so thrilled for each one as he or she is qualified to enter or re-enter the temple...and that will not be too far in the future.

"Who can find a virtuous woman?"

2009-03-29T21:04:00.015-04:00

"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies."
(Proverbs 31:10)

"Virtue" was the theme of the Young Womans special meeting in the Plainview Stake on Saturday March 28. Sister Da Rosa has asked me to teach the young women and their mothers a special song to be sung at the conclusion of the opening session.

A lovely program was planned for the afternoon and evening including music, speakers, workshops, dinner and concluding with the satellite broadcast from Salt Lake City of the General Young Woman Meeting.

Click for satellite rebroadcast schedule

Since Bay Shore Ward is in the Plainview Stake, I thought it would be a good idea to get a picture of the building. That can best, or should I say "only" be done before Spring, Summer and Autumn foliage completely hide this sprawling edifice. It was a beautiful 20-minute drive on a pleasant day to help the Young Women at their special program. Hundreds of man hours (or rather, women hours) went into "feeding the Lord's sheep" in this little flock. That's just how this Church does things!

"Anything Goes" at Queens College

2009-03-29T17:15:00.014-04:00

A Cole Porter classic, "Anything Goes" originally debuted in 1932 during the great depression and is a story that plays out many madcap antics aboard an ocean liner bound from New York to London. It is light-hearted and fun. And we got to see it Friday evening at the Bernstein Theatre on the Queens College campus.

Queens College just off the busy and oft congested I-495 freeway and is noted for its production of good musicals. Many Broadway greats have had their beginnings at this notable instutution. It was our observation that a few of the performers in this college production were as good as some in the Broadway shows we have seen. There is remarkable talent here. It was a great find for us!

Imperial Palace and Chinese Dining

2009-03-29T17:00:00.001-04:00

Elder & Sister de Paula and Elder & Sister West

We've been waiting for great Chinese food ever since we arrived in New York nearly 15 months ago. The Wests came to our rescue! We'd both has district meetings that day, busy tight schedules, and the break was delightful.

They found the Imperial Palace in the hear of Flushing, Queens, NY not far from the Goldstein Theatre at Queens College where we would later see Cole Porter's "Anything Goes." We found out why it was so highly rated and so packed. The food was delicious...and beautiful!

We Love Our Missionaries!

2009-03-29T16:53:00.017-04:00

Our missionaries at the bi-monthly combined district meeting enjoy a moment of visiting and ice cream and cookie treats, thanks to Elder and Sister Roush, senior couple based in Riverhead, New York. The earlier classes were taught by the young sisters and elders. What a magnificant job they do - both inspired and inspiring!

Not all the district is in the picture as some scampered away or are visiting in the cultural hall or outside in the Spring weather.

There are a record number sister missionaries in our Zone -five of us all together.

(L to R) Sisters Frodsham, de Paula, Burton, Sellers & Brimhall.

Our Zone 8 leaders are amazing young missionaries! Elder Roush, left (grandson of the senior couple), and Elder Hales, right, are spiritual, obedient and enthusiastic. What a blessing it has been in our lives to associate with such stalwart young people...and how we will miss them when we leave!

What Happened on Patmos

2009-03-29T15:07:00.019-04:00

A short distance off the coast of present-day Turkey, in the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea, lies a tiny, rocky island called Patmos. In Roman times, its barren isolation made it ideal as a site for the banishment of political prisoners, ambitious enemies, or others considered undesirable by the imperial state. To it in the last years of the first century A.D. came the exiled apostle John, known also as the Beloved. And to that rocky island prison on a Sunday over nineteen hundred years ago came the glorified, exalted Christ.

Heralded by the trumpet blast of the godly voice and standing in the midst of seven golden candlesticks symbolic of the seven branches of His Church in Asia was the Savior. Some fifty or sixty years before, he had hung in agony on the cross and had been laid in the dark recesses of a borrowed tomb. Now he stood in blinding, blazing glory before John. “I am he that liveth, and was dead,” he declared, “and, behold, I am alive for evermore.”

John fell to the earth as though dead, but the glorious figure touched him, commanding him to fear not, commanding him to write those things which he was about to receive from his Master. That was the revelation of Jesus Christ - to become The Book of Revelation.

We began teaching the book of Revelation last week with its rich imagery, its bold proclamations and profound promises to the saints in two ages.

The book of Revelation is unique. It is quite different from any of the other New Testament books. To many, it is a baffling and confusing book, containing symbolism and imagery foreign to anything with which they are familiar. To many, its name seems to be a contradiction, for in Greek Apocalypsis means “an uncovering” or “an unveiling” of something, and the typical reader finds the content of this book veiled and obscure rather than the opposite.

We created several charts, handouts, quizes and worksheets to help clarify the metaphors used in Revelation. The theme of the work is very simple and is stated by John in the first verse: it is a revelation of Jesus Christ. The book of Revelation presents a picture of Christ’s dealings with men throughout the ages of earth’s history - that which has happened and that which is to happen. We have only two more lessons to discuss this great book.

Brock's Birthday at the Academy!

2009-03-26T15:27:00.013-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BROCK!

We just love heading east to King's Point, NY to the USMMA to see "our boys" and teach Institute, but it's even more fun when we get to celebrate a birthday. Brock chose as his birthday treat a mango - his favorite fruit. The others in class shared the chocolate chip cookies:-).

On Monday we had six students and a teacher, Charles, from Brooklyn who teaches at the Academy. We had a wonderful discussion of the book of Revelation and look forward to two more. How we will miss these great young people in a couple weeks!

Young Couples Strengthen the Bay Shore Ward

2009-03-26T13:02:00.012-04:00

LEAVING BAY SHORE A BETTER PLACE...

Long Island is a great place for young couples to live who are attending medical or law school. When we arrived in the Bay Shore Ward, we met many of these great, young families who were from all over the USA and who helped to strengthen the ward.

The Stevens family were here for a few years before Dr. Stevens took a position with a hospital in Champagne, Illinois. They recently came back for a surprise visit with their two children.

Chris and Cindy are a great couple who bring much strength to our little ward. They are both excellent teachers and serve in the youth organizations. They will be relocating nearer "The City" as Chris is presently considering law firm opportunities. Cindy is studying to become a PA.

Jen and Shawn have been a real strength in the ward in leadership positions in Primary, Elders Quorum, Ward clerk for several years. They are the parents of two adorable children. They will be finished with schooling and leave in the Fall to return home to Washington state where Shawn will work as a Physician's Assistant. How this ward will miss them!

"Beautiful Savior! Lord of the Nations!"

2009-03-21T23:55:00.012-04:00

When the bishop asked me to prepare the choir to sing for ward conference on March 15, I heard one simple, quiet phrase in my mind - "Fair is the sunshine. Fairer the moonlight and all the stars in heav'n above..."

That's it... we would sing "Beautiful Savior" a children's song, a simple Silesian folk song, with lyrics written nearly 1000 years ago.

The Savior of the world was simple. He restored His gospel to a young, unschooled farm boy in upstate New York. And He spreads that gospel today to the world, not by means of learned ministers, but by worthy young missionaries.

"Thee will I honor, praise, and give glory, give praise and glory evermore!" The ward choir was angelic. They followed every crescendo, every sotto voce, every diminuendo. Elder Maughan did a beautiful job at the piano. We "became His" because we "became one."

"God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty" 1Corinthians 1:27

Becoming a Citizen - a Lifelong Dream

2009-03-21T18:00:00.010-04:00

Adela is one step closer to her lifelong dream. Wednesday we took her to the immigration attorney about an hour away to process her documents to becoming a citizen of the United States of America. She was so nervous and so excited, but things look very good for her.

Ellis Island

The prints from a museum hung in the waiting room. As we waited, I thought how long those who came and were detained at Ellis Island had to wait. What their cost must have been. How difficult the conditions were for them. I thought of what the Book of Mormon says about this "land of promise." They came to be free and haven't stopped coming.

As we sat in the outer office waiting for her, we could hear the muffled voices of Adela and her attorney. There were quiet moments as well as frequent laughter. It felt promising. This woman had waited so long and done everything required of her to now become a legal citizen. We were happy to be part of her joy.

Celebration Lunch at Mi Tierrita

2009-03-21T17:36:00.027-04:00

Delicious Columbian Food

After a successful hour or so with the immigration attorney, Adela knew right where she wanted to go. She'd heard of a good restaurant around the corner, so off we went.

It was a Columbian restaurant - and word had it that the food was good. Well...the food was marvelous and the place was just beautiful!

Fish, plantains, salad on a huge platter and rice & beans on a separate plate - way too much food for one!

It was a good day, helping a dear church friend whose life is devoted to helping so many people in our little congregation. Adela prepares dinner for all the missionaries every Sunday, or any other time they have a moment for a quick meal. She teaches the gospel essentials class at church and shares a powerful testimony of the Savior. She works two jobs and she loves and serves the Lord endlessly.

Today was a little moment for us to serve her.

Institute - Spiritual and Physical Food

2009-03-19T15:31:00.014-04:00

The Spiritual Food

Institute Class is winding down for this semester and we will miss this class so much. Studying the New Testament has been remarkable with young men and women like these! We know we are in the presence of, as Peter describes, "chosen, royal, holy, peculiar" young people.

The Physical Food

Corned beef & cabbage stew with red potatoes and carrots just seemed to hit the spot with the students at Institute on Tuesday, March 17 - St. Patrick's Day.

There's something about homemade cornbread that satisfies the taste buds like no other...and topped with honey butter helped out just fine.

It was a great evening of spiritual and physical food in generous portions at Stony Brook!

Sharing the Gospel at Applebee's

2009-03-19T14:46:00.008-04:00

A Charge from Our Mission President

In our effort to fulfill the recent request of our mission president, we are seeking out families. We seem to have our best success on Friday evening at family-friendly restaurants.

Last Friday evening went to Applebee's and were seated across from a couple with three young children...perfect! It's so easy to strike up a conversation about someone with kids:-) After asking about them and their twins and baby, we told them that we missed our five children and twelve grandchildren because they were all in Utah.

Then the questions came. Why are you in New York? Are you LDS? (Now that was different - not Mormon - but LDS.) The young woman said she belonged to two book clubs and had just read a book (gave the title) and asked if I had read it. I responded with a question, "Is that an anti-Mormon book? (Smiling...)Well...I probably wouldn't have read it." Then we both laughed and she replied, "Of course not."

I told her we were very impressed with their curiosity, with them as a couple and with the love they show their children. We chatted briefly about being a family for eternity and general things about life. We could see they were packing up to go.

It was about this time I said that after having read the anti-Mormon book, she deserved to know the truth. It was then that Elder de Paula went to our car to get a copy of Book of Mormon. I wrote a short note in it, asking them to take the Prophet Moroni's challenge on p. 529, chapter 10:3-5. We wrote our name and phone number in the book and on the pass-along card, then hugged eachother and said good-bye.

We felt such love for them. We had been obedient. We went to our car and had a prayer for this precious family, asking Heavenly Father to open their hearts.

Senior Activity - A Feast Fit For the Irish!

2009-03-18T22:03:00.070-04:00

Whether you're Irish...or a senior missionary in the New York New York South Mission, you wouldn't have wanted to miss the Irish fest at the Bennions on the March 16.

It was our turn to "host" the senior activity and corned beef & cabbage is one of our specialties... so it seemed a natural. Seated with President Bennion, above, are Elder & Sister Smith and Elder de Paula.

Elder & Sister Comer, below, show us their smiling faces and yummy food.

Above are Elder & Sister Wilson, left, busy eating, with President & Sister Bangerter, pausing for a picture.

I never could capture Sister Bennion with her companion for a picture.
At left, meet this remarkably wonderful hostess!

Elder & Sister Hess, above, didn't want their food to get cold, but gave a quick grin:-)

President Goepfert and Elder & Sister West, above, enjoy visiting and eating at one of the two tables that accomodate the 10 couples.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner

We love our senior missionary couple activities each month and were so glad to plan our turn on March 16th lovely home of President and Sister Bennion.

Corned beef & cabbage, baby carrots, red potatoes, three salads, Irish soda bread...it was a feast St. Patrick would have been proud to eat! Everyone brought the most wonderful dishes. What a beautiful and tasty variety of food! Is there a place on the missionary application for "specialty cook"? ...because this mission got all of them! Sister Bennion's tables were so beautifully decorated for our St. Patrick's Day party. She always adds just the right touches!

Elder & Sister Roush, below, smile for the camera...
"but hurry, we're hungry!"

Fun and (One) Game...

Our Trivia Quiz 1st Prize winner was none other than our dear President Bennion. He must have known so much about Ireland because he served a mission in his younger years next door in Scotland!

Congratulations President:-)

The desserts were in typical senior missionary form - plentiful and decadent!

"Patrick, A Christian Missionary"

We gave each person a paper entitled "An Overview of Patrick, A Christian Missionary." Patrick was a Christian missionary to Ireland who lived from around 373 AD. It is believed he died in 460 AD on March 17th - the reason Saint Patrick's Day is celebrated on that day. He served as a missionary from around 433 AD to his death.

What appears in his own letters was that Patrick held firmly to the fundamental Christian doctrines of the early apostolic church including the keeping of the Ten Commandments, the keeping of the Sabbath (7th Day) Holy and without labor, the divinity of Jesus, the Christ, baptism, atonement through Christ, inspiration and prophecy. This is not what the Roman church of that day was teaching or if they were teaching it, it was only in part and tainted with pagan rituals and beliefs. In his letters Patrick never mentioned a connection with the Roman Church of the time.

Centuries later, however, the Catholic Church chose to honor him with sainthood in 17th century on March 17, the day of his death, although Patrick’s beliefs never did correspond to Catholic doctrine.

"Oh Danny Boy, I Love You So..."

The evening ended with Elder de Paula singing the favorite Irish Tenor arrangement of "Danny Boy" (I, of course, was on the piano bench accompanying:-)

Spaghetti Dinner with Competition Rules

2009-03-18T21:43:00.008-04:00

There's a little "healthy" competition going on in our ward. It's not in sporting events... but in cooking. This time it was a spaghetti dinner - complete with a set of rules! It turned out delicious...and fun so with three prize winners.

The sister missionaries could hardly contain their composure during the reading of the "competition rules."

It was a fun evening at the Ward where we enjoyed good food, good friends and good fellowship.

New York is Full O' The Irish!

2009-03-18T17:31:00.024-04:00

Huge Parade in Bay Shore

We should have remembered from last year. On the Saturday before St. Patrick's Day there is a huge parade in Bay Shore - at least two hours. We were heavy into studying for our classes for the coming week, but decided to walk the quarter block (our apartment building is in the background) to Main Street and watch the last half. It was delightful! Colorful costumes, friendly people, wonderful bagpipers, marching police, family floats, cyclists, etc.

"Look, no hands - and what beautiful music from this family!"

The weather cooperated this year, but bad weather would never have discouraged the true Irish heart. Last year was a downpour and the turnout was great!

Even with more than half the parade over by the time we finally left our apartment, we still saw well over an hour's worth of color, bagpipe bands, marching police units, floats and cyclists to fill our hearts with Irish fun. New Yorker families really know how to celebrate!

New Yorkers are BIG on Family Activities!

Click the play button to see and hear the Bagpipers...

Service on Fire Island

2009-03-13T23:35:00.010-04:00

Heading South to Fire Island

We were asked to help a young couple in our ward whose little girl was having surgery by taking in a meal in. The grandparents, non-members from Missouri, had come to care for the little boy while the parents were at the hospital. This would be a good opportunity for them to see the Church in action.

It was a perfect time for us to see Mother Nature in action as well. We had wanted to drive to Fire Island, but never had. What breath-taking views! The sunset shot was taken from a bridge, through the passenger window at 60 mph - a miracle!

The directions were easy to the Love house - just drive across the bridge, go around the tower and turn left at the flashing lights. What was hard was to keep our eyes on the road - the sights were so amazing!

Speedy Recovery for a Tiny Girl

The family lives in Marine housing on the Island and we were very happy to be assigned to take dinner to them. Their little daughter had surgery on Monday and was doing great and was already home. We enjoyed a brief visit with them... as well as the spectacular drive finding them!

District Meeting and President's Interviews

2009-03-13T21:01:00.030-04:00

It was a happy time of eating lunch and just visiting with our great district between interviews with our beloved President Bennion and district activities and business. How thankful we are for the President's leadership and love.

Memories of Camp

How long's it been since you had a foil dinner? We made 20 of them for our district and for a family in the ward. We started out by browning the pork chops and added red potatoes, carrots, garlic, parsley, dry chicken noodle soup mix, a few other spices, baked them slowly for a couple hours and voilà... ready to eat. Of course the five loaves of crusty French bread added something. It all seemed to go down just fine!

(Thanks, parents for your kind comments on this blog. We try to take good care of your missionaries. You get an extra solo picture of your missionary just for that:-)

Elder Maughan

Sister Burton

Elder & Sister McIff - New Mission Doctor

2009-03-13T17:09:00.011-04:00

New Area Mission Doctor

We were so pleased to meet Elder McIff and his wife, from Mapleton, Utah at our recent Zone Conference. The McIffs have been serving since November. Dr. McIff spoke to the missionaries on the balance of obeying the mission rules regarding eating properly and doing 20 minutes of aerobic exercise daily which will "benefit them all day long." He was very direct - not push-up, not muscle-strengthening work-outs...NO! Aerobic exercise - brisk walking, running in place or outdoors. "Just be obedient." Good advise for us old missionaries too:-)

Sister Bennion on "Obedience"

Sister Bennion gave a powerful talk on obedience, involving discussion with the missionaries. In her usual insightful and sensitive manner she called the elders and sisters to a remembrance of the "first law of heaven." Quoting many scriptures and examples of missionaries she brought to our attention the fact that obedience is freedom. We often have the opposite idea, don't we?

Then from Preach My Gospel, she read - “Obedience is the first law of heaven. It is an act of faith. You may sometimes be required to do things you do not completely understand. As you obey, you increase in faith, knowledge, wisdom, testimony, protection, and freedom.”

Sister Bennion went on, "Please listen carefully to what Apostle Elder Robert D. Hales, stated, 'No matter how much an individual or family may sacrifice for a mission or anything else, unless missionaries choose obedience, consecrating all of their time, talents, and resources in the service of the Lord while they are in the mission field, they can not fully realize all the great blessings the Lord has in store for them.'”

This is a great woman with a great message that day. We are blessed to learn from her.

"Be Thou An Example of the Believers"

2009-03-05T23:03:00.022-05:00

After preparing and serving zone conference lunch for sixty missionaries Wednesday, we drove 75 miles east on Long Island beyond all the freeways because the little branch in Riverhead was in need of an accompanist at their New Beginnings program. The woman who had practiced with the young women for several weeks had fallen on the ice and injured her back and no one was able to play the difficult accompaniment. Even after a heavy day, a sore back and bronchitis coming on, what could I say except 'yes' ?

The Young Women's theme for 2009 is from I Timothy 4:12 "...Be thou an example of the believers..."

By some miracle I regained my strength. We loved being with them! This meeting brought back beautiful memories of attending many such events with our four daughters. And now, as our oldest granddaughter, Hillary nears 21 years of age and marries Scott, her returned missionary in May in the Salt Lake Temple, we are reminded how quickly the years pass and how important it is that each generation remain "an example of the believers."

Zone Conference in the Plainview Stake Center

2009-03-05T22:52:00.022-05:00

The food was ready. They were hungry.

Checking Mail, Visiting, Getting Ready to Eat!

And here they come... first things first - straight to check out the mail and packages! The missionaries just have to check that first before they dish up the food:-)

Then they ate and ate...and were really filled with this lunch! Everybody was so appreciative. What fun missionaries!

One of our mission assignments is to occasionally help organize, prepare and serve lunch at a zone conference. We love to feed missionaries! On Wednesday, March 4, we fixed a quick baked potato bar with all the trimmings, a huge green salad, rolls and butter, with a tangerine and a large chocolate chunk cookie for dessert. It filled these starving missionaries right up!

There was a choice of several toppings for the baked potatoes - butter, sour cream, shredded cheese, corn, salsa and chili con carne. Some had all of the above:-)

We couldn't have done this task without the wonderful help of Elder & Sister Comer and Elder and Sister Roush. What a team!

"Weather"...You Like It Or Not

2009-03-02T18:53:00.015-05:00

...It Snowed!

These pictures were taken right by our apartment, but all of New York and most of the eastern seaboard was plummeted with snow - the biggest of the season - even as Spring approaches. Universities, schools, some businesses and most preschools were closed. Area airports canceled numerous flights and experienced countless delays. The Long Island Railroad had rare delays due to blowing and drifting snow and problems with frozen switches and added an additional eight trains from Manhattan east to Long Island beginning in the early afternoon to get commuters through the storm.

Our Institute Training meeting was canceled this morning, sparing us the (normal) hour drive each way into Queens. And as things didn't improve at all during the day, our texting back and forth to our students at the Marine Academy resulted in the decision that it would not be wise to attempt the long journey.

Snow plows could not keep up with the snowfall which lasted all day. We were happy to be able to stick close to our apartment and away from the treacherous roads.

The record snow fall today may have only been outdone by the record stock market fall. Ouch!

A Surprise Reunion

2009-03-02T10:59:00.003-05:00

Before his retirement, Elder de Paula had been sent to supervise a Church translation project in Haiti and worked with a young member of the Church there - Brother Bourdeau. Imagine their astonishment as they spotted eachother more that fifteen years later at Church in Long Island New York! Ironically, Brother Bourdeau has family living in our mission ward.

These two caught up on people they worked with on the project and the growth of the Church in Haiti. There are now two stakes in Haiti and Brother Bourdeau was just released as Stake President. It was a sweet reunion for these two brothers in the gospel.

"Endowment From On High"

2009-03-02T00:03:00.010-05:00

Temple Preparation Class

Bishop Rathgeber mentioned several months ago to his executive secretary, Elder de Paula, and me that he would like me to teach a temple preparation class in the Bay Shore ward. I LOVE teaching, so I could hardly wait!

The bishop called seven people to attend, eight showed up, and we began last Sunday. The challenge is that there is a former bishopric member and a non-member in this same class.

There is great participation. The non-member loves the class, attends all the church meetings, and has asked the sister missionaries to come to her home. Her husband attends the class and is a faithful member. Somehow it's working. I'll just try to stay out of the way and watch the miracles happen.

"South Pacific" at Lincoln Center

2009-03-01T23:17:00.016-05:00

SOME ENCHANTED EVENING

We looked into getting tickets to see South Pacific during the Summer, but if (and that was a really big "if") they were available, they were $600 each. People were even scalping them for more. We laughed at the very thought. We wouldn't pay that much to fly to the south pacific!

We waited for the tourist season to pass and in the meantime our friends, the Wests, informed us of a company that deals in returned event tickets - original purchasers can no longer use the tickets and are willing to get rid of them even at a loss.

We got orchestra section seats on the 5th row for $96 and could see every eye movement and facial expression. The staging was superb and the music was glorious. It was worth the wait:-)

The Passing of a Good Man

2009-03-01T22:15:00.010-05:00

We had never met this gentleman, but we knew he must be a good man. We received a called from our stake president telling us that his father had passed away. He got permission from our mission president to ask us if we would play and lead three hymns at the Friday night wake (viewing). We took one of the portable keyboards I use to teach keyboard classes in the church and found our way to the funeral home. This is the third funeral we have participated in for a person we did not know.

President De Rosa's immediate family, all members of the Church, recalled fond memories of their dad and grandpa. The family and congregation sang a patriotic hymn - "My Country 'Tis of Thee" and two Primany songs - "I Am a Child of God" and "Families Can Be Together Forever." Anthony De Rosa was a WWII veteran, a caring husband and father, respected business leader, author, athlete, and life-long Catholic. There was a beautiful feeling of love, respect and camaraderie in that funeral home in Queens, New York that evening. We were thankful for the invitation to serve in such a small way and feel the love of this close family.

"Just One More Picture...Please"

2009-03-01T22:06:00.007-05:00

I love these young sister missionaries - Sister Burton and Sister Fordsham. They get along so well and are really a lot like sisters. These two are making so much progress with the people in this area because of their love and service. They've adopted me as their "temporary mom" and I am definitely mom-like! We all love serving in the Bay Shore ward together. They like to have pictures taken and then ask - "Are you going to put this on your blog?" Clever, arent they?

"Riding into the Sunset"

2009-03-01T21:30:00.011-05:00

Long Island Sunset

It just seems to be that time of the evening when we make the hour-long journey west along I-495 to one of our Institute teaching assignments. It's hard to capture the true beauty of these magnificent sunsets at 60+ mph in heavy traffic, through a dirty windshield, amongst weaving vehicles. They really are beautiful sights of Long Island.

Guests at the Merchant Marine Academy

2009-02-24T17:02:00.007-05:00

We love Institute!

We usually have Garrett and Josh (front row) and Brock (back row) at our Institute class on the campus of the US Merchant Marine Academy way out at the tip of Kings Point, NY. But Monday night was a special surprise. Stephanie, a new nanny living in the area, was a guest of one of the students, along with two fulltime missionaries - Elder Edwards and Elder Douglass.

It was a record number for a class there and we loved it! We had a wonderful time discussing several of Paul's Epistles in the New Testament with these great young people. There's nothing more rewarding than teaching:-)

"Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing"

2009-02-24T16:56:00.008-05:00

Although I was in a really great Choir for eighteen years, I hadn't directed one until our first mission at the MTC in Brazil. I was scared to death! But, as luck would have it, during those two years, I was hooked. Most times there were 200 voices - more singing than listening - and the experience was a deep spiritual experience for me.

Here in our Bay Shore ward, I have led our choir several times. We had practiced two times before Sunday's presentation with rather good turnouts, but with missionary transfers, out of town weddings, people coming late to meeting, we ended up with five voices total singing "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." Elder de Paula was the only man and Sister Frodsham, with three sisters from the ward made up the entire choir.

I said a silent prayer and led Elder Maughan at the piano in the introduction. The Spirit descended and again through a simple hymn we enjoyed a deep spiritual experience. The phrase came to my mind - "...where two or three are gathered together in my name, there will I be in the midst of them."

District Meeting - A New Look

2009-02-24T16:44:00.006-05:00

You've Gotta' Love Missionaries!

Our district - the biggest in the entire mission - has twelve young missionaries and us. After mission transfers last Tuesday we got one new missionary, Sister Burton with a few elders being "shuffled" within the district.

Front row: (l to r) Sisters Frodsham, Burton, Brimhall and Sellers. Back row: Elders Alder, Low, Johnson, Oliverson, Lee, Carcel, Maughan and Caramia.

Half of these missionaries were called as Spanish-speaking, half English-speaking. What a joy it is to know them!

New Missionaries Arrive February 16!

2009-02-20T21:23:00.008-05:00

A most choice mission assignment for us is to help President and Sister Bennion with the new-missionary dinner. We were happy to help with one on Monday, February 16 and prepared our assigned dish of "funeral potatoes." There were thirteen new missionaries, five APs and office elders, the Bennions and us. The recipe I use serves 12. I quadrupled it. There were no leftovers. It's fun to feed missionaries:-)

Click the PLAY button to meet the new group at the mission home:

"A Song of the Righteous is a Prayer Unto Me"

2009-02-15T19:54:00.008-05:00

One of the most spiritually satisfying and beautiful events I have participated in during this mission - and maybe ever was a musical number in our ward Sacrament Meeting today. The three missionary sisters on my left - Sisters Brown, Frodsham and Goldthwaite sang a personalized arrangement of "I Am a Child of God."

Last evening after our missionary correlation meeting they asked me if I would accompany them and we did a run-through at our apartment. I asked them if they wanted a "straight" version or an "improvisation." They wanted me to improvise and follow them in tempo and fullness. It was thrilling. The Spirit was working in all of us to bring about an amazing experience to be presented in Sacrament Meeting. Just before the number was announced from the pulpit today, one of the sister missionaries leaned over to Danila (on my right) and asked her if she could sign this song and would she do it right now.

They came up to the microphone, and when everyone was ready I began the introduction. The music, the Spirit and the ASL signing grew and soared through the congregation and into the hearts of everyone in the room. It was a peaceful power that can only be experienced. How blessed we were to be in that room to partake of the Lord's great love pouring down upon us. Music can truly be a beautiful prayer.

Ward Correlation - It's All About People!

2009-02-15T19:21:00.003-05:00

We meet every Saturday evening for about two hours - all the missionaries assigned to the Bay Shore Ward and the ward mission leader, Brother Siniscalchi. One by one each missionary presents the names of the less active members or investigators who may need love and encouragement from this group, the bishopric or the ward members.

The Spirit is often very strong at these gatherings as we begin and end with a hymn and a prayer and attend to the Lord's precious work. During the evening, the following phrase frequently crosses my mind "Feed my sheep."

It is the most important work to be done.

"Thinking of You"

2009-02-15T19:15:00.003-05:00

After 45 years of making Valentine cookies it's just in my system even if my kitchen here has no counter space, a broken rolling pin, no heart cookie cutter, no decorating tools, a really bad gas oven, and only one cookie sheet! (Do I thrive on opposition?)

Nonetheless, I spent six hours on Saturday making and decorating 36 large Valentine cookies for the missionaries, recent converts and ward mission leader's family. They turned out OK and best of all I got rid of every one of them!

Valentine Dining at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse

2009-02-15T19:01:00.011-05:00

Never in all our years have we had a dining experience like this one! We had never heard of this place (although we heard there is one now in Salt Lake) - Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

After district meetings at opposite ends of Long Island, two hungry couples dressed in missionary attire, including, by chance, identical red sweaters, (so tacky!) and met for lunch. We chose the rib eye steak with stir fried spinach with garlic. I salivate as I write. To die for!! I sound like a commercial. I am.

Our friends, the Wests know everything good...and expensive! Google this place anywhere you are in the world. It's almost everywhere. You won't be sorry. Senior missionaries do have more fun. Period.

February's Senior Activity

2009-02-15T18:41:00.005-05:00

This month's senior activity on February 9, was a dinner together in a private room at the Sizzler in Forrest Hills, NY and included a farewell to Elder and Sister Burt who will be leaving the end of February.

Elder and Sister Comer planned the event and asked each couple to tell what their specific mission duties are and what the challenges have been.

Joining the activity were (l to r) Elder & Sister Wilson, Elder & Sister Hess, Elder & Sister Smith, Elder & Sister de Paula, Elder & Sister Comer, Elder & Sister Burt, President & Sister Goepfert and President & Sister Bennion. We missed the three couples who were unable to attend.

We're in charge of the March activity. Hm-mmm...I was thinking of the Island of Bermuda. It is in our mission you know!

"Dinner Rules in the Mission Field"

2009-02-15T18:26:00.007-05:00

The young missionaries may eat at member homes on Sunday and Monday evenings and on any other evening of the week if there is an investigator present. Ward members love to feed the missionaries! Missionaries love to eat! It's a great combination - and Sister Cruz is a wonderful hostess who loves to "claim the blessings" of feeding the missionaries each week.

Elder Maughan was just about elbows deep in shaping the chocolate chip cookies for Sister Cruz by the time we arrived. He surely looked like he'd done this a few time back home!

Teaching on His Birthday - All in a Day's Work!

2009-02-05T22:56:00.023-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - FEBRUARY 5TH - ELDER DE PAULA!

We love our Bay Shore Ward Institute class. It's quite unlike our other classes - a real cross-section of diversity in every way. We love sharing and learning together. We have new converts and life-long member transplants to keep things interesting.

After our lesson/discussion on the last few chapters of Romans and the first seven chapaters of I Corinthians, we retired to the serving area for a little party. There, our dear class members had prepared hot homemade soup and crackers, drinks, all kinds of desserts and had also decorated with colorful birthday balloons! We enjoyed pleasant mingling and munching for the better part of an hour. We've going to miss this ward when our mission ends.

What a thoughtful gift - a Bay Shore Sweatshirt! Perfect for taking home to Utah:-)
Elder de Paula reads his birthday card from the Bay Shore Institute class. Isn't he the greatest-looking 72-year-old (ssshhh!) you've ever seen?

Isn't this cake beautiful? Sister Cruz is an expert at cake making! I see why there's a rule about no lighting candles in the church. Well....on this cake 1) you wouldn't be able to see the cake and 2) those 72 candles would burn the church down! It's a good rule.

Have You Considered Serving a Senior Mission?

2009-02-04T15:58:00.018-05:00

I was just thinking how great our missions have been and wondered if there might be some seniors 'out there' who are considering a mission, but can't quite decide. I started searching for mission blogs and found some great ones. Check them out at the right. These are senior couples who have answered the call to leave home and family to serve the Lord through various means and in various places. Some we know - most we do not. But we identify with all of them!

President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "Along with the need for young elders and sisters, there is a growing need for couples in the mission field. Older married couples are doing a wonderful work in the missions. Many more are needed. . . . With an increasing number of people retiring while they are still possessed of health and vitality, there are many who can fill a tremendous need in the work of the Lord." Now if that doesn't put "fire in your bones" about serving, nothing will:-)

Birthday Celebrating Begins...

2009-02-03T22:19:00.016-05:00

SINGING 'HAPPY BIRTHDAY' AT CHILI'S
After our Institute Training meeting on Monday the 2nd, we headed to Chili's with Elder and Sister West to celebrate Elder de Paulas birthday...for the first time this week:-) We take every possible opportunity we can get! His birthday is on the 5th.

The Fajita Trio was the choice of the of everyone at the table - with grilled vegetables, shrimp, chicken and steak. Later, the darling waitresses sang to the birthday guy and topped off our meal with a deplorable, chocolate dessert bearing four spoons. We felt obligated to try it:-)

It began quite a week of celebrating - that is between personal study, classes, meetings, lesson planning, bishopric work, keyboard class, choir rehearsals, visiting, etc.!

Look What We Found at the USMMA...

2009-02-03T20:37:00.007-05:00

On Monday evening we arrived a bit early to the Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY for our Institute class. I began setting up for our New Testament class and Elder de Paula went into an adjacent room to pick up some LDS hymn books - a task the students usually do.

He came back with a few hymnbooks and the words - "Come and see what I found!" I followed him and found myself standing in front of this painting of the "Bay of Rio de Janeiro" painted in 1947. What a surprise!

We love Rio and have fond memories of our time in Brazil. How it ended up in a non-denominational chapel on Long Island New York is a real mystery. We'll have to find out.

Sunday Dinner Guests

2009-02-02T21:58:00.010-05:00

Dinner at De Paulas
Frequently we invite ward members, recent converts, or missionaries to have Sunday dinner with us. On Februray 1, we were pleased to have Frank, our ward clerk and his wife Marlene, a member of the Pentecostal Church, and their adorable 3-year-old Frankie. We almost kept that little guy, but I would have had to learn Spanish:-) Mike, on the left, who is a stalwart new member and attends our New Testament class joined us as well.

Beautiful Columbian Pasteries

Frank and Marlene brought an assortment of beautiful Columbian pasteries which none of us needed! We had a delightful visit with our dinner guests.

"Paul Writes to the Romans...and Us"

2009-01-31T10:00:00.007-05:00

What a thrill it has been to begin our study of the Book of Romans this past week in our Institute classes. We have had some marvelous preparation and study time and so much enjoyed our classes this week. There has been a good spirit in the classes as we have shared our insights and testimonies. The Apostle Paul is a perfect example of a true saint - living the gospel, being a missionary, loving all people and being bold in his witness of the Lord Jesus Christ. It has prompted us to do the same.

Make a Smilebox greeting

"District Meeting then Old Country Buffet"

2009-01-23T17:19:00.037-05:00

BAY SHORE'S SIX MISSIONARIES AT DISTRICT MEETING

Every Friday we have district meeting with the fifteen missionaries in our district. The current look of that district changed quite a bit at with the last transfer - many left and many came. We love them all!

Our district leader assigned lessons to be taught Friday on charity and service. They were beautifully presented from Preach My Gospel and the scriptures.

'HAPPY BIRTHDAY LUNCH'

Where do you take a bunch of starving missionaries after a two-hour district meeting? Oh yes...the Old Country Buffet should do just fine...especially if it happens to be Elder Caramia's birthday. We celebrated all birthdays in a 3-months period of time:-)

(L to R: Elders Alder & Johnson, Sisters Frodsham & Goldthwaite, Elders de Paula, Caramia & Carcel.)

We felt bad that three sisters from our district were not able to meet with us today because of a temple trip to Manhattan. We're quite certain their day was wonderful, and we will do this again.

We LOVE those salads!

(L to R: Elders Oliverson, Lee, Law and Maughan.)

We had a great time eating and visiting with the elders and sisters...and checking to make sure they were getting a good balanced meal:-)

Sister Bennion would have been so proud of the huge salads elders...as would your moms!

"Paul of Tarsus - A Chosen Vessel"

2009-01-22T17:13:00.021-05:00

Paul of Tarsus would have fit very well into one of our Institute classes on Long Island with his multi-cultural background and linguistic ability.

Our classes just this week finished studying the last half of Acts and have come to appreciate Paul’s conversion, stalwart missionary zeal and powerful testimony. We all sensed that we must be a little more bold in declaring the gospel of Jesus Christ to those with whom we come in contact.

The Prophet Joseph Smith gave a description of Paul on January 5, 1841, at the organization of a school of instruction: “He is about five feet high; very dark hair; dark complexion; dark skin; large Roman nose; sharp face; small black eyes, penetrating as eternity; round shoulders; a whining voice, except when elevated, and then it almost resembled the roaring of a lion. He was a good orator, active and diligent, always employing himself in doing good to his fellow man.”

As a Jew, Paul was known by the name of Saul and was educated in Jerusalem as a Pharisee under the famous rabbi Gamaliel. He was also a Roman citizen by birth, a rare privilege for a Jew at that time. Also, he was familiar with Greek language and culture through his early environment in the city of Tarsus. Therefore, he was able to deal with Jews, Romans, and Greeks on their own cultural terms-a great advantage for his later missionary work.

The Seminaries and Institute website has so many resources that are available for our use as teachers. To summarize our teaching of Paul’s life in the scriptures, we have used DVD clips offered by the Church Education System. They are beautifully done.

We've been so impressed with Paul's missionary journeys over thousands of miles to many countries, cultures and languages. He would have loved New York! Our students have truly enjoyed this 3-week segment on the teachings, travels and testimony of this great missionary apostle. Paul is a powerful example of mighty change.

"The Gospel Changes Lives"

2009-01-15T15:28:00.010-05:00

Let me share of the most amazing stories of our mission. It began in February, several weeks after our arrival in Bay Shore. We were teaching our weekly Institute class on a Thursday evening. In walked an awkward, unkempt, long-haired 20ish-year-old who sat down in the third row, soon introducing himself as Kristain.

Countless thoughts darted through my mind, the most benign of which was "What are you doing here?" To the surprise of everyone in the room, Kristian asked no less than a dozen compelling questions during that Book of Mormon discussion. The thoughts in my mind took a change of direction. And so did Kristain's life.

Kristain, a former gang member, was baptized June 1, has received the Aaronic Priesthood, attends two Institute classes and is president of one of them, is a ward missionary, has had a remarkable Patriarchal blessing, is preparing for a mission and is truly a living example of what the gospel can do in one's life. He truly lives the gospel every day and testifies to everyone he meets. He is not afraid to tell people where his life was and where it is now - because of his love for the gospel of Jesus Christ.

We love this young man. He has a wonderful, kind heart and a great testimony of the Savior. And his questions have only increased:-) What an example!

"Teaching The New Testament - Part II"

2009-01-09T17:45:00.006-05:00

What a thrill for us! We just love The Acts of The Apostles and are so happy to be back teaching our classes. This great book could also be called "The Book of Luke - Part II" since Luke is the author, writing a beautiful discourse to an acquaintance, Theophilus. I have given it a subtitle - "The Gospel in Action."

Acts is just that - a book of action. It is the Gospel of Jesus Christ in action. It begins with organizing, calling new leaders, spreading, teaching, baptizing, training, caring, ordaining, feeding the poor, healing and vast missionary travels to "the uttermost parts of the earth." Acts feels much like the Church today...as well it should.

We read Peter's first powerful public discourse and testimony of the risen Lord, and of his skilled direction of the apostles, and of the healing of the sick and other miracles. We found Peter's leadership as president and prophet of the Church to be nothing short of spectacular - preaching with such a Spirit as to bring 3,000 souls to repentance and baptism in one day shortly after his call.

This is that same Peter who obediently denied knowing the Savior three times when the Savior gave him the command... "thou shalt deny me thrice." Had Peter not done so, his life, along with that of Jesus, would have been taken and the Church would have all but withered and died shortly after the Savior's crucifixion. Our lesson manual suggests that we bear our testimony about Peter. It was an honor to do so!

We readily agree with President Kimball who refers to Peter as "Peter, My Brother" and asks the question "Do we understand the circumstances of Peter's denial as well as we think we do?" Additionally, we were thrilled when Dr. Andrew C. Skinner's article from the 2002 Sidney B. Sperry Symposium later appeared in the Church News where he maintains that everything he knew to be true about Peter indicates that "when Jesus told Peter he would deny Him thrice before the cock crowed twice, it was not a prediction; it was a command."

My interpretation of Peter going out and "weeping bitterly" afterward was because of his sorrow in having to obey a difficult command from the Lord - one he would never have chosen to do. This is the Peter I have known and admired for over 30 years. How wonderful it is to be teaching our students the Lord's teachings through Peter and the other great apostles' dedicated service.

"Mission Transfers and More to Love!"

2009-01-09T17:13:00.010-05:00

If you thought we were the biggest district in the New York New York South Mission before...well guess what? We're even bigger now! Instead of being the biggest at 14, we're now the biggest at 15. The smallest district in the mission has 4. With all the new sister missionaries, our new district leader got up today and welcomed us to Relief Society. (He could only be so lucky!)

So here we are: (l to r) 1st row: Sisters Brimhall, Goldthwaite, Frodsham, Brown and Sellers. 2nd row: Elders Maughan, Oliverson, Law, Carcel and Elder & Sister de Paula. 3rd row: Elders Caramia, Peterson, Alder and Lee (new district leader). Aren't they great? (click on the picture to make it bigger and/or save it)

Once in a while we get the urge and the time to throw something together for a little district meeting lunch. Today was one of those times. The missionaries are always so-ooo appreciative. They work so hard and have so little time and money that we like helping when we can. Maybe that's why we're referred to as Papa and Mama D.

We're really happy to get to know this new "family" that we already dearly love!

"Frank & Nicole Spend Christmas in New York"

2009-01-03T16:44:00.076-05:00

There is something
magic about New York
at Christmas time -
the store fronts,
the windows, the crowds,
the colors, the music.

We were so happy to have visitors for Christmas to brighten the season with love from home and family.

For Frank and Nicole, spending Christmas vacation in New York City was as easy as 1, 2, 3!

One: Find really good airfare from SLC to JFK leaving Christmas afternoon - after the rush.
Two: Have parents living in New York so you don't have to pay hotel rates.
Three: Make sure you know what you want to see and do.

So here they are! Just arrived at their "hotel" room - complete with a mint on the pillows.

Frank and Nicole loved to shop on Canal Street, visit Little Italy, eat at Lombardi's Pizza and enjoy the Christmas decorations in Manhattan. They also attended Church in our ward, just hung out with us, went sight-seeing around the island and also ate some pretty decent meals and snacks in "Sharon's Kitchen." It was so fun for us:-)

Two Interesting Sites
Sagtikos Manor is located in West Bay Shore. Its 1200 acres formed a shape which resembled that of a “head of a snake”, the Indian term being “Sagtikos.” During a tour of Long Island in 1790, President George Washington stayed at Sagtikos Manor.

The United Stated Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, NY was a highlight for Frank and Nicole. None of our children had been to this spot although this is where we drive one hour each way to teach every Monday night. These two just loved it!

Sunset Silhouettes at Kings Point USMMA Academy

One of the real advantages of serving a senior couple mission is that there is flexibility in time and activities - quite unlike the young missionaries. That is a real blessing for us parents and grandparents. So you seniors who may be considering a mission, just do it!

You mean it's been a week already?

Saying good-bye is never fun. The week went way too fast. Like Nicole said, "It seemed like two days!" When we got back from taking them to the airport our tiny apartment seemed so big and empty. And so did our hearts.

We had a wonderful time...but the magic is over and the mission continues. We're preparing now to teach our regular classes next week. After all...that is what we came here to do.

"Bay Shore Ward Christmas Presentation"

2009-01-01T21:24:00.012-05:00

We had a miracle at Church. The bishop asked Sister de Paula to put together a musical program for the Sacrament Meeting before Christmas. He wanted a choir. But we don't have a choir. So I got busy finding other numbers.

Two young single adult sisters, Daniela and Mareena, did "Away in a Manger" as flute and voice with ASL. Elder de Paula sang "O Holy Night." Sister Perryman, a young missionary played "Sheep May Safely Graze." Our reader, who said she would "try" to make it there on Sunday, did a very nice job. And yes, the choir did sing!

With two short practices and only half a dozen voices at each rehearsal, we sang. Many more people came up from the congregation the morning of the presentation, joined us and followed beautifully. The arrangements of "Angels We Have Heard on High" and "Silent Night" were simple, yet beautiful. The angels came to make a miracle happen in our little chapel that day.

There was a sweet spirit of peace and reverence in the chapel that Sunday, as well as expressions of joy to be able to hear music at Christmastime from members of the Bay Shore Ward. It was a blessing for everyone.

"Christmas Eve 2008 in the Mission Field"

2008-12-25T17:53:00.014-05:00

Food, fun and friends...that's how Christmas began for us in the mission field this year. A dear young family in our ward helped fill a whole in our hearts by inviting us to join them for a get-together in their home on Christmas Eve.

George and Kami, with little daughter Gabi, hosted all the Bay Shore missionaries and several ward members in their home for a wonderful Christmas Eve dinner.

Everyone who came contributed with a favorite dish...and there was a delicious array of food items. The evening concluded, after eating and visiting, with a scriptural account and discussion of the Savior's birth from 3rd Nephi.

"The Gift of God" - Mission Conference Miracles

2008-12-21T17:58:00.036-05:00

On December 9 and again on December 16 were the New York New York South Mission Conferences with half of the eight zones participating on each of the dates. It was different than a regular mission conference in many ways. This was a celebration of miracles.

We celebrated Christmas with shared "miracle stories" presented by several missionaries. Mission miracles had been been submitted by each missionary, at the request of Sister Bennion a few months ago, and were printed, bound into a booklet and presented to each missionary as a gift at this special mission conference.

President Bennion, addressing both the conferences, spoke to the missionaries about the importance of seeing the miracles in their work of day to day missionary labor. He also noted that "some miracles take time."

Sister Bennion had organized a lovely Christmas lunch and given special assignments to the senior couples in their specific zones to help with the food preparation and serving, table decorations and clean-up. The food was delicious. Everything was just beautiful!

"The Gift of God" Musical Presentation

Sister de Paula's assignment was to bring together a one-hour program (on both dates with different participants) including narration, soloists, readers, violinists, violist, accompanists, organists, and an SATB choir making sure it coordinated smoothly with a slide presentation - all without a rehearsal!

This necessitated endless days of planning, phoning, mailing, scheduling, stapling, inserting, printing, highlighting, labeling...and praying before each of the presentations on the two dates. Remember, each presentation used an entirely different group elders and sisters because they were assigned to attend either on the 9th or the 16th.

On the mornings of the two conferences, we arrived early with arms loaded with folders for narrator, readers, strings, and choir parts. I watched as elders and sisters entered the chapel. "Do you like to sing?" "Yes, kinda' ..." "Good, join our choir today for the Christmas program. We'll have a walk-through at 1:20 pm and present the program at 2:00."

Or, I would just wait as a group of elders entered the hall and listen to hear who had a deep, rich speaking voice, then smile, hand him a folder and say "Hi elder, with a voice like that I'm sure you'd like to be Samuel, the Lamanite prophet in our Christmas presentation today- your part is marked on the outside of this folder."

As I spoke with the participants at the brief walk-through, I reminded them who they are and whose they are. They had already been set apart as missionaries - instruments in the Lord's hands. And today they were going to be, in a real sense, simply instruments. They were not to perform, but rather to "bear testimony" in word, instrument and song, not drawing attention to themselves, but becoming "one" through the Spirit.

They did just that. They were ratified by the angels in heaven who joined them. There were tears in the eyes of everyone in the hall - including those who participated. All were edified. It was truly another mission miracle.

"Ward Christmas Party - Food, Fun, Families!"

2008-12-18T22:38:00.037-05:00

“Eating is not merely a material pleasure. Eating well gives a spectacular joy to life and contributes immensely to goodwill and happy companionship. It is of great importance to the morale.”

— Elsa Schiaparelli

“Food, like a loving touch or a glimpse of divine power, has that ability to comfort.” — Norman Kolpas

“Strange to see how a good dinner and feasting reconciles everybody.” —Samuel Pepys

When it comes to ward parties, they're pretty much the same throughout the world - food, fun and families. In foreign countries, it's the food that's the greatest variable. Here in New York it's still the greatest variable. Because of our ward's wide ethnic diversity, the dishes contributed by members offer a wonderfully varied cuisine.

There were smiles on everyone's faces at the Bay Shore ward's Christmas party December 13. The de Paulas enjoyed taking pictures from our table in the corner.

The cultural hall was full to over-flowing. It was a lovely sight!

There were many part-member and less active families who joined in the evening of food and fun.

It was a well-planned and highly successful ward event with a good feeling of brotherhood and love.

"Food is our common ground, a universal experience." - James Beard

2008-12-18T22:37:00.005-05:00

After the delicious meal and socializing an entertaining Christmas program followed...

"This Ward's Got Talent!"

2008-12-18T21:41:00.029-05:00

The program was just outstanding! The Pombonyo family was in charge and well they should have been - the husband plays a wicked saxophone, the wife plays the piano very well, the son is great on the trumpet and the daughter lead us with the handbells. They directed us in singing Christmas carols in closing, which always brings a feeling of unity and peace.

The band was made up of ward members (l to r) Danny, Louis, Brother Pombonyo, Jared and Anthony. They did several outstanding Christmas arrangements and ended with Felice Navidad. What a hit!

Joy to the World...and the Ward!

"A Time of Teachers Being Taught"

2008-12-15T09:33:00.056-05:00

We were asked, along with the other Institute teachers in our part of the mission, to meet with our coordinator, Cory Bangerter for training with a representative from the area office in Washington, D.C.

That representative was Randy Daybell, assistant to the area director, a soft-spoken master teacher and spiritual giant. Brother Daybell taught us from the 3rd and 4th chapters of Zechariah. And in so doing, he revealed to us who we really are as teachers, leaders and examples of youth. As if he could read our minds, he told us that some days we may wonder whether or not we are really doing any good amongst the young people here in the mission field.
(Pictured above is Randy Daybell, Assistant to the CES and S & I Area Director, Washington, D.C. with Elder & Sister de Paula)

Zechariah Chapters 3 and 4
Then, getting into the scriptures, Brother Daybell promised - "Before we are through today, you will own these two chapters." The spirit and power with which he spoke bore testimony to our hearts. We learned that as adults and teachers we represent the "oil" (nourishment) coming from the "olive trees" (the Savior) which fill the "menorah" (the youth and others). As explained by Brother Daybell, because we are "tapped" by others, we will very often feel virtue (i.e. "power and strength") go out of us as did the Savior when the woman touched His clothes to be healed.

He then asked us to recall those times in our own lives when we remember having "tapped" into others for "oil" in our journeys through life. Perhaps we may not now remember those people, but they were there perfectly placed as sentinels just, as he noted, like the temples stand as our protection and strength. Even when others, and especially the youth seem uninterested, they are "tapping in" to our reservoir to gain strength and light from our "oil." This is one way we become "Saviors" to others along the way in this life.

The symbolism was beautiful. The message was timely and carried by the Spirit to our minds and hearts. Brother Daybell said, "And sometimes you don't even have to say a word, you just need to be available." It was truly a day of teachers being taught. How blessed we are to be here to teach...and to learn!

"Melanie's Special Day at the Temple - November 22"

2008-12-13T15:35:00.013-05:00

We met Melanie in August at the home of our Institute student, David, who entered the MTC in Provo shortly afterward. We invited Melanie to attend our Stony Brook class. She came...and has come every week. A true joy in our lives! (Melanie is 2nd from the left)

Was that really only four months ago? Surely we must have known Melanie for thousands of years before that. She is "just one of those people." We love this dear soul!

One evening after class Melanie took us aside and said she would like us to be with her in the Manhattan Temple when she received her endowments since her parents are so far away in Auckland, New Zealand. We were thrilled to stand in as her parents. They must be so very proud of you, Melanie:-)

We really get close to our Institute students - we feel like they are truly our own. We were honored that Melanie invited us to attend the Manhattan Temple with her on this special day in her life. It is a day you will treasure forever...and so will we, Melanie.

"Lunch at Sardi's on West 44th St."

2008-12-10T14:17:00.035-05:00

Oh, the blessings of serving a senior mission in New York! The December senior activity in our mission is generally a memorable one we understand and this surely satisfied our expectations...and our pallets!

(It's been one week since this event, but our lives have been so busy with mission activities, there was no time until now to write about it! Our ward duties, our regular Institute teaching assignments and pulling off an hour-long Christmas program involving half the mission December 9 and another program on December 16 have kept us going. The Mission Christmas Conferences included organizing musical numbers - quartets, trios and a solo, readers, narrator, choir numbers, string players, etc. - all without a rehearsal! Things like color-coding parts, printing scripts, stapling music, assembling folders, mailing soloist's music, telephoning, praying ...and beginning the cycle over again has been the norm for the last two weeks. Then...yesterday's presentation turned out wonderfully well! It was truly like a group "testimony" set to slides and music. That's how things work in this Church when the Spirit is invited to be present. Those in charge of the food, the decorations, and just everything did such a magnificant job. President and Sister Bennion are perfect leaders. It was a memorable event for our young missionaries.)

Now, before the food gets cold...

Shrimp and scallops with rice and corn risotto, a lovely green salad for an appetizer and cheesecake for dessert was our choice, but gourmet everything was the order of the day at Sardi's famous restaurant on west 44th street right in the middle of Manhattan.

This "upscale" senior outing was planned and organized by the upscale Elder and Sister Smith, who left individual favors at our dinner table - hot chocolate mugs of New York skylines filled with candies:-) Thank you Smiths...and now we're all off to Radio City Music Hall for the Christmas Spectacular.