State of the Church in Portugal and Specifics of Our Calling

We studied and prepared, then went to Porto for our meeting with Elder Lassiter, of the area presidency. There were a lot of interviews going on, for this is a historic occasion in Portugal. Elder Lassiter is here to divide the Porto Stake—the first stake in Portugal to be divided. 3 stakes have been formed here, but from mission districts. This is the first division—a landmark. Elder Hilliam, the regional representative, is here to assist. We met him first. He used to be a mission president here. He's an orthodontist from Idaho, and has 2 regions there to supervise! Talking to him, he says that in years there will be stakes here if the church doesn't stub it's toe some way. He is merely projecting what's happening into the future. The Lisbon stake is in for division. Setúbal is needing division. Coinbra will be a stake in a year, as will Vila Nova de Gaia and Espinho . São João da Maderia district should go in a year and a half. By then we'll be getting 3 or 4 more in the south mission and coming up again for splits in the Lisbon, Porto, Setúbal and Matozinhos stakes. Give all these stakes splits every 2 years or so, and you get a lot of stakes fast. Portugal is so exciting right now. Elder Hilliam and Lassiter said that we are not only leading Eurpon, but making the rest of Europe start hustling! They are being shown what can be done and getting shaken loose. These 2½ missions are up to 1000 converts per month now, and they are just getting started. It's a thrill to be here and see the dedicated men and women who are getting it done! And ⅓ of the missionaries are Portuguese!

Then our inteview with Elder Lassiter. The forgoing is all a pre-amble to his message to Marian and me. He said he was glad to meet with us finally, that our names were the most-used names in the area presidency meetings for the past 6 months. He said they have had many calls to and from the missionary committee about us. One thing, the committee didn't know how to word our mission call. He said "just word the call anyway you need to. When they get here, we'll tell them what we need." (That explained some of our confusion with the call.) He talked of the above— the great growth in Portugal, and how many of the youth are slipping away. He asked what size car we were driving (we said an Opel Corsa): he said we would have to have a larger one, because we would be traveling all over Portugal and we needed to protect our heath! He wants us to work with every bishop and branch president in Portugal to upgrade the education program—better teachers called and they become more involve with new member youth, more youth taking seminary— he wants 85%! This next year!!— The missionaries are to teach seminary when they teach the discussions and get the non-member youth into Seminary. The class should be at the baptism. There needs to be shown Elder Packer's presentation on Seminary to every ward and branch PEC. We are not to visit homes of members to get there children into Seminary, but may go into non-member homes to encourage children and youth, because we are missionaries. Quorum leaders are to be taught to get member youths' parents enthused about Seminary. He wants activities for the youth, and they may raise funds for these. He'd like to see Portugal-wide activities for Seminary!

How do we do all this? He'll write a letting to each branch president and bishop and tell them we're coming. Keep President Copeland advised of our whereabouts, but feel freee to move about where the Spirit dictates. Contact him anytime (or his successor, Al Chauler!! obey!) but don't call him about chearances or where to go or can we do this or that— President Copeland will be our touch-place.

Elder Lassiter called Marian and me "pioneers". He said we were the first, and he hoped there would be more like us, but that our success and/or experiences would dictate what to do with future education missionaries in Europe. He said we would be carefully watched to see if it can be done. Elder Lassiter gave us to know that much was riding on what comes of our mission. He said "it may take 18 months, and it may take more. Are you prepare to stay 5 years?" He was joking, I'm sure— I hope. He just has to be joking.

We (Elder Chapman and I) attended the Priesthood leadership meeting incidental contact to the Stake Conference. Elder Hillum and Elder Lassiter leaned very heavily upon Portugal sacrificing for the future of the Church. They spoke of buildings needed- needed badly! They need in for 20 a years in Portugal for the next 3 years. They start now. Money is needed, and when a building labor is needed—all must work on the chapels! Sacrifice is needed for time—time to serve in callings, for everyone, time to reach out to neighbors—time to receive the endowments— sacrifice of money, self, time. The a temple will be built. But the Brothern will be watching Portugal for 5 years to see if the Gospel is deep enough in peoples' hearts for a temple. (Some of the above also came out in the Adult Session at 7:00, with Mariam and Sister Chapman joining us.) Between meetings, we rode out and saw where Chapmans live—in Matozinhos nearby—a bairro (neighborhood). They are getting a little apartment fixed up for them in the home of a member. It'll be nice. We bought bread and cheese and sausage for dinner at the Models. Then after the evening meeting Mariam and I drove home, and we had a lot to talk about! Bed came late, and sleep took awhile.

New Stove & Grocery Shopping

This is the day we got our stove hooked up. A real red-letter day! Elder Corte-Real and Elder Bradford came and got me, we went downtown and punched it through. It's surprising how tough it is here to get just a simple thing done! Because stoves aren't sold with the hook-ups, you have to get an electrical controlling stove to make a custom cord to your specifications. Putting the plug on the end is a major job in itself. That hooked up the stove's electric. Then the gas hook-up. A separate place, and they have to make a costume gas line ad fitting. Then get the gas tank. Elder Corte-Real got it all done, however. Marian loves him! Also he ordered us a telephone —you do that at the post office. They said it would take 3 or 4 weeks. In the afternoon Marian and I went to the mercado (grocery store) here in São João. Another experience. It was raining, so we had to hustle with an umbrella. The mercado is in a large building downtown, and when we went in and toured the circle of displays we had all eyes upon us. I'm not used to everybody watching me. We got some fruit, rolls and sliced ham. Then to a small supermercado (supermarket) nearby where we did some more shopping for food. We didn't feel so conspicuous there! This is only the 2nd day since our arrival we haven't been to Porto.

European Outlet Adapter Trials

Got up and plugged in my electric clock—it blew with the new adapters. I tried the other clock and it blew too! I plugged in my old shower to change it, and it blew! It smelled bad—the smell of an over-heating transformer. So, undaunted, I plugged in my new shaver to charge it. It worked, and still is (as of 9:30 pm tonight). One out of 4 isn't bad!

President Aires and his wife came to work here today. They worked all morning and Elder Corte-Real and Bradford came by to also work. In the pm we went to the Continente again. It was a feriado (holiday) and we got into a first-rate mess! Everyone was there. Jam-packed. We got a table and a Portugal clock-radio so we can tell time at night. Also some other stuff. A pleasant trip home together. In the evening we worked on goals and journals, hung up our family B-day chart and such. I got out a little tap player and played Church tapes—first we've had.

New Missionaries in Porto

We did our studying and such, got ready and headed for Porto. Changed the rest of our travelers checks at the Bank Fonseca. Got over $165! Best it's been since these Elders have been here! Then went to the mission home to meet the new missionaries arriving —the Chapmans, Sister Parkinson, Elder Weymouth, to Portuguese Elders—Amaro and Porto. A fine bunch! The two APs ate with us too at lunch. Then the new people went down for a nap and we returned to São João da Madeira for our own work. The Elders and Sisters all came by just as we were getting ready for leaving to go back. Good to see our own group. It rained on us going back, and we should have had taken an umbrella. The evening meal at the mission home was a feast, and then a testimony meeting . The Spirit was richly evident. Marian led off the testimonies. What a beautiful person she is, all opened up and strong and speaking out just as she always wanted to but wouldn't or couldn't I remain very impressed and grateful. She's a tough act to follow in English, and getting tougher every day in Portuguese. We each bore testimony. Marian revealed some very deep feelings about Donna. Perhaps even I have not understand the depths of her feelings about leaving her child. I would do anything I could to ease the hurt. But with all I can do, I know it is between her and the Lord to work out the guilt that's sweeping over her and the worry, and the NOT knowing now—so far away!! It's all up to the Lord and Susan and the family there—and that's real frustrating for her.

After the testimony meeting, we all went to a baptismal at the stake center, then ran in the rain to get assignments at the mission office, then walked back to the mission home in the rain, getting soaked. The baptismal was nice—met some of the Porto Zone Elders and Sisters (likewise a good-looking bunch) and a bunch of members and investigators. More beijinhos (kisses) for Marian. A little girl wrote here a note and drew her a picture and told her she loves her! Just had met her! We drove home to São João da Madeira in the rain. Arrived real late. Went right to sleep.

Zone Meeting

Early the dono (landlord) was here as he promised, and had a man with him to permanently get our electric going. Now we're feeling more first class!! We went to the Vila Nova de Gaia to a zone meeting of the Espinho Zone. It was held at the chapel we've built there—a beautiful building. 20 Elders and 4 Sisters and 2 APs and President and Sister Copeland and us. What a beautiful bunch. São João da Madeira Zone doesn't have a corner on good-looking, hard working missionaries! All was conducted in Portuguese. An Elder Leffler came and sat by Marian and translated for her—unasked, un-beckoned. He just came and sat down by us and started translating. The Zone Meeting was 4½ hours long, and we enjoyed it immensely. Then we went to the Continente and bought stuff for our refrigerator—a lot of stuff! It's good to know we can keep milk now (We still can't cook—no stove.)! We drove up the hill in the evening and saw some more of the town. There are some beautiful homes up there! Real good to be able to study 'til we feel like going to bed—electric lights, you know!

"I said it would be worth it!"

Another cold, cold shower. I didn't even eat breakfast (that was a mistake, because I didn't get lunch!). At 9:00 I mailed 3 letters at the correio (post office) near by, then begged the dono (landlord) to get our electricity. He promised again. Off to Porto—I'm getting good at it now. I dropped Marian off at the mission home while I went to the mission office and found that I was an hour early for the meeting. So, I went shopping and to the bank—alone (I shouldn't do that)! Got a good exchange rate on my traveler's checks again—$162. A long presidency meeting with the mission presidency and the physical facilities man—Liberal. It was very interesting and I couldn't understand all of it, but I appreciated being there. I think that President Copeland will invite(?) me to each of them, because President Ayres will be going to Africa soon for awhile, and I'll probably have the district to run (that's RUN, not RUIN!). I picked Marian up later, we shopped at Continente (Walmart of Portugal) again for house hold stuff. We still can't by anything that's needing refrigeration.

After arriving home, and while beginning some letters, the Elders—Ainge and Badell—came, then the dono (landlord), and he hooked up our electric to his store and We Have Electricity!!!! The water heater is heating, the refrigerator is too, and we have lights! Great!! The Elders helped with it, then left. Marian's not feeling too swift tonight, but we're still banking on President Kempton's blessing!! And I caught up my journal by electric light!

My feelings are real close to the surface right now. I am so grateful for this call. We have 15 months from today to serve here. I don't know what this next time will bring, but we'll never forget it. The sights, the sounds, the smells, the traffic, the people, the missionaries. The saying keeps running through my mind: "I didn't say it would be easy. I said it would be worth it!" My motto for our Portugal Mission!

Happiest Day Since Arriving in Portugal

Our first Sunday in Portugal. It was a dandy! We still have no electricity, so a cold shower and dress up and off to Ovar with President Ayers and his wife for branch conference. It was a spiritual feast. The distance was about 25K and he drove nicely. The countryside is gorgeous—flowers all over, the houses with their tile roofs and small, well-kept yards—nearly always bordered by a few grape vines, the spaces between scattered homes and small clusters of houses are almost all covered with a forest. This place in springtime is what travel folders are made of. The several small towns we went through are of course cobbled with houses right along side the narrow road.

Ovar is a larger town, and we went right to the center where the chapel is. Like nearly all the chapels, it is located on a couple of floors of a loja building—loja (store) along the street, and 1° (1st) and 2° (2nd) andar (floor) for the igreja (church).* We renovated the interior and put in classrooms and a small chapel, complete in some cases with a small pia (font) for baptismals. It isn't like back home, but it serves, and there are a lot more baptisms.

At the sacrament meeting of the conference Marian and I sat on the stand and spoke briefly. President Ayers spoke, and the zone leader. After the meeting several sisters throngs Marian. One gave her an armful of roses. Two others just stood close, looked at her, and wouldn't stop. Just kept looking and smiling. These women are going to love Marian. She gets so many beijinhos (kisses) it's almost frightening. Such fine, beautiful people.

After lunch at the Mirabela (our electricity is off, and we felt we needed a real meal) we snoozed a bit then went to a baptism at the branch here in São João da Madeira. The floor was wet when we arrived, we watched two girls get baptized, then when we left we found another group of 15 waiting to use the font. 27 were baptized at that font today!!! Whoops—excuse me, 5 of those were baptized in the river nearby.In the early evening President and Sister Copeland came by and visited with us—invited me to a missionary presidency meeting tomorrow and us both to come Wednesday to have lunch with the new missionaries. (The Chapmans, Sister Parkinson and Elder _____ (can't remember his name). Then be there for the orientation and testimony meeting. We'd love to be there.


Then four elders came—Ainga, Beddell, Larsen and McCune—and we had a great time. Til dark. Real dark. The Elders ate peanut butter, honey, and jam and loved it. If the sister missionaries had been here, we would have had the whole district! Well, that was Sunday. We went to bed. We went to bed happier than we've been since we landed. The happiest man in Portugal.


*In Portugal, the 1° andar is what we would call the second floor, the 2° andar is the third floor, etc. The ground floor is called the res-do-chão.

Meetings, New Furniture and No Electricity

Went early to the Seminary meeting at the Porto stake center. All of Xavier's teachers from all over the north where there. Faustino Lopez from Madrid was also there. It was well organized and well attended—some 30 or 35 teachers where there. A good looking bunch—looked a lot like seminary and institute teachers anywhere. Men and Women, mostly mid-twenties to mid-thirties. I helped with a scripture chase. Marian watched a while, then went shopping with Sister Copeland. About 11:00 I broke loose, returned to the mission home, we packed up and headed for São João da Madeira. Upon arrival here, we did some unpacking, then the office furniture began arriving—elders elders elders! A real good-looking bunch. We went to a meeting at the branch chapel. It's a sala (room) on the ground floor of a loja (store)-apartment building. It's not much, but it's a start. This entire district is less then two years old—when President Copeland started this mission 7/87 there were no members in any of the 8 branches. This is all fresh. Now the leaders are gunning for a stake!

Back to the meeting at the São João Branch—we thought it was a baptism. We got roped into a District Branch President Meeting for 2½ hours! Marian was pulled into it, couldn't understand a thing —I could understand a lot but was super—board. A bad experience. We came home to the apartment, ate some bread and jam, the district president, Aires and his wife, came to get their office fixed up, and we chatted some. A dreary evening. No electricity and no way to get some until next week. At least we have water, but it'll be a cold shower. I got this written just as the light gave out, then I'll guess we'll go bed!

Getting Familiar with Our Surroundings

We're on our own. We drove our car (a little white thing) to the office, more orientation. Went to the bank and changed some money. Then out to buy supplies and eat lunch and try the road and traffic ourselves. The map isn't much use and the whole traffic thing is a mess. We did pretty well at the Continente (Walmart of Portugal) but couldn't find some stuff. A wild ride back to the mission home—we felt we were too late to go to São João today. We relaxed 'til dinner. Then went to the Modelo (Grocery Store) shopping—it's nearby. There we found some stuff we needed, and had a pleasant walk, too. Spent the rest off the evening memorizing prayer and testimony, also studying the language, figuring out Portugal money, etc.

I talked to Stan and Frank last night because things here just aren't settled at all per CES. I got Christian's number and called him this morning. He was no immediate help—he said that he had written a letter to Elder Lassiter outlining my CES responsibilities here and he would have to approve it. Since Elder Lassiter is coming here next weekend to divide the Porto Stake, maybe that is when I'll receive my orders. I sure hope so.

Also Xavier called, invited us the seminary faculty meeting tomorrow and asked me to run a scripture chase. I'll do my best. At least, Xavier knows I'm here, and is willing to work with me. Also, Faustino will be here. That's great.

New Apartment in São João

A little trouble waking up this morning—didn't make it awake until 8:00 (That's really late for us.). President and Sister Copeland took us out to São João da Madeira—our new home. It is some 40 kilometers south of Porto and a little off the freeway. Beautiful country all through there, with patches of forest alternating with white houses and red tile roofs. Vilanova de Gaia is across the Douro River, then some bairros (apartment complexes), then little towns. Off the freeway and almost to São João, there is an old Castle which we'll want to learn about as soon as possible. Our apartment is one of four in a new building above a couple stores. It is roomy, clean, and very, very much appreciated. It has 3 bedrooms, a living/dinning room, 1½ baths and a good-sized kitchen with a clothes washer right outside veranda—in fact there are 3 verandas! Nice tile work all around, and I think we'll like it a lot. Lunch across the street at the café. And we met President and Sister Aires. This is the man and wife we'll be working very closely with—he's São João District President. I'll be his executive secretary. We made some purchases to further outfit the place, then back to Porto, dinner, another interview and bed!

[Porto]

It is hard to know when to break between yesterday and today. But the sun was up when we arrived at Lisbon, and our first glimpse of this lovely land with its white houses and red-tiled roofs. Beautiful from the air. The airport is poor-to-fair, so construction everywhere. No one to meet us. We muddled through baggage and ID check. No one checked us at customs—waived us right through! Lisbon airport | Porto airport. We were met by President Copeland and Elder Sumner, mission secretary. But first, more on the trip. We flew TWA in 1011, both long trips. They were quite full and as I said a little uncomfortable. The last leg—Lisbon to Porto—was in a cramped 2 propeller plane. We thought might come apart. I had little faith in it. The trip by car to the mission home was uneventful/eventful—an intro to Portuguese drivers! The whole place is much as I remembered Brazil. Narrow streets, many of them cobblestone, crazy drivers. The scenery just the same, just as beautiful. We met Sister Copeland at the mission home, and the four kids. We were exhausted from the trip, so we're allowed to crash. Crashed we did until 4:00 when we walked over the the mission office near by and had an orientation with Elder Sumner and then with President Copeland. Dinner and diary and crash again.

[Porto]

Up early and John took us to the airport and we got in LINE. Never dreamed there would be such a LINE. We had a real difficult moment saying goodbye to John, then went to the LINE. We finally got on the plane, but it was 1 hour 20 minutes late getting going! Flew to New York in fair discomfort, ambassador class and Marian had an aisle seat. It was a cloudy day in Phoenix when we left, and rainy, foggy and nasty in New York when we landed. In the terminal at Kennedy we met the Battaglias—a district president in Portugal—Algarve, the city of Lagos (Lakes). Sweet, super-nice people going home from the marriage of their son in Utah. They talked with us, then were on the same plane to Lisbon.

The Lisbon plane was late leaving Kennedy. We were really uncomfortable in this one. Couch seats, narrow, cramped, no aisle or window, all night, etc. We did our best—Marian was sick from bumpy air for awhile, and didn't feel good at all. I turned my watch ahead 8 hours, but she wanted her's left on Arizona time for now. I understand her ailment. Leaving 27 grandkids and Donna—especially Donna—plus all our kids and their great spouses. It's enough to make a lady sick.

[Mesa]

Up early packing etc. Said our goodbyes this morning to Mary Ellen, John, Amy, Cassie. Tough, but the dissipation and desire to serve made it possible, and we went up afternoon to Coolidge, then Mesa. The difficulty with leaving the Campbells is just that the heavy bonding, built up for twenty eight and a half years, makes it all the more difficult. Marian and I have talked of how there is no more love there—the love is the same all over. All our kids, their spouses, and children are loved most surely and completely but for the reasons well-known, the special bonding is a factor—me to Mary Ellen and Marian to Amy. It makes it tough to leave. The Campbells will be just fine in our absence. The new house is adequate (The pool and landscaping are going in right now). John's job is going really well—I'm proud of him for his industry and ability. Also grateful to him for loving and caring for Mary Ellen so much. Also the ward has accepted the family just the way you always hoped they would everyone. They're busy, happy and successful. I love them, but I really want to get to Porto—so no tears!

On to Coolidge! First Mike's house. By the time we got there, the kids where all home from school, or arriving. Mike came home from work special to see us off. Such a lovely family!! This is such a loving bunch—full of hugs and kisses. Something about a grandchild's hug and kiss that's extra special. Some business matters to discuss. More hugs and kisses—this was a short visit, so it was mostly hugs and kisses. This family is close and doing fine (it will do better when Mike finishes school and can get on with his real life's work. They're all pulling for that!). Also hard to leave!!!

On to Sue's. This was the toughest. Our Donna clinged to us like she'd never let us go. She doesn't understand. And we'll just have to leave it up to the Heavenly Father to help her through this. Most of the kids where there—all but Jan. We hugged and kissed some more—I don't know how many of those are available on any one day, but this day was surely loaded! We told everyone goodbye, then another hard parting from Donna. I kept a smile glued on, tho. On the way down the street we saw Jan walking. It was a difficult moment leaving her, and driving away. Love that special girl!

On to Mesa, awhile getting set apart at Mom's, then a time with John's family. All there. All loving and squeezing. Since we'll see John in the morning, it diffused this departing a little. Hugs and kisses and hugs and kisses. It's extra hard to leave John and his family because of the unsettled conditions there. The pregnancy, the job insufficiencies, all else still unsettled. But here, again, we'll just have to leave it all in the Lord's hands. He knows us and our families, and our needs, and He still said "go to Portugal," so we go! I pray that the Lord will bless and prosper our families in things spiritual.

Back to Mom's for the night. I called Gwen, Shirley and Carol. Marian called Frank and K. We went to bed sad but ready—.

[Tucson]

A beautiful, cool Arizona Sabbath day, and Mother's Day. Marian looked beautiful, complete with her missionary name-plate. Mary Ellen looked gorgeous. Sundays and Mother's days seem to do a lot for our dear companions. Special days! Special ladies!!

We attended church at Mary Ellen and John's 25th Ward. A nice meal followed. At 3:00 we went to David and Peggy's for a couple or 3 hours. The kids put on a program for us, were so cute and loving. A present for Marian. Peggy is a really wonderful daughter-in-law. Very special to me. I love her for herself as well as all the wonderful work she's done on her family. They show it. It was hard to leave because now we know this is the last one, for a long time. We leave this family in good hands with David. He keeps a special part of my love with him. I owe him so much, and love him so dearly. I'm immensely proud of my son. He played his banjo a little for us, and was so gracious all the while. Then home to Mary Ellen's, and a really nice evening with John and her. I love her equally—and john the same. The Campbells have been so gracious to us—the room, and all the love and attention we could hold. I am so very proud of this little family. This attitude toward things that matter most is good and solid. They are prospering greatly—new house, new cars, swimming pool going in, landscaping rocks coming tomorrow, etc.—I think they'll handle it well. They truly love us, and it is great to be with them.

[Coolidge]

Errands and such around Tucson a.m. Afternoon late we went with John and Mary Ellen—their car—to Coolidge for Mckay's baptism. A nice family time! I spoke on baptism. Just us from Tucson and the Coolidge family were there, and a lot of Hansens and Brooks. Had a nice visit afterward with Susan, Jan and Lindsay and Taylor. The rest went to Spencer's ballgame. Back to Tucson real late.

[Tucson]

ALL RIGHT!! Back in Action! About 2:00 I called Murdock Travel to see about the visas. We've got 'em! They are already back to Murdock (I don't know why they didn't call us when they cleared—jerks!), tickets to Portugal are purchased, everything in special delivery to us, to arrive at Coolidge Monday.

We fly TWA from Phoenix at 8:17a, Tuesday May 16, via New York to Lisbon, then TAP to Porto. Arrival 8:30 am Wednesday May 17. Now we're back in the missionary spirit--->zoooom!

We got Marian's finger fixed again at Dr. Fulkerson's—it turned out to be a real funny wart—and came back to Tucson.

[Mesa]

Reina's B-Day—#16!

[Mesa]

Talmage's B-Day

[Mesa]

Marian's B-Day

[Tucson]

Back to Tucson. Donna an appointment with Dr. Leavitt to fill her tooth again, Lindsay's B-Day and dinner, back to Tucson to stay with Mary Ellen. This is not a mission. The events are not missionary events. Waiting for a visa at home is the pits. Since this journal is supposed to be a missionary journal, I'm putting it aside until the mission starts up again. So—until further notice!!! Lindsay's B-Day.

[Mesa]

Busy with business—pictures, groceries, Marian to Dr. Fulkerson for a sore on her finger that won't clear up. Evening and dinner with John and Barbara. A conversation with Mom before she went to bed. I pray for Gwen all the time—that she'll be able to fill her pledge to take care of this lady for the rest of her life. I'll pray more fervently!! What a task it will be!!

[Mesa]

Marian and Mary Ellen took Cassie and went to a showroom for jewelry. I stayed with Amy and took her to school. That was nice to have a couple of hours with Amy. We left for Coolidge about 3:00, went to Susan's and McKay's B-Day. Also dinner and Family Home Evening. About 8:00 we came on to Mesa. Mom had already retired, so we quietly entered, settled in and turned in. McKay's B-Day.

[Tucson]

Slow start-up. Marian and I missed Sunday School and Priesthood/Relief Society and caught up on journals and talked quietly. It seemed to be a good time for it. Sacrament Meeting here in the Tucson 25th Ward was good. Best part of the program (after the Sacrament) was the talks given by Mary Ellen and John. They each spoke, each very well, each humbly and with testimony, and I was so proud I could have popped all my buttons. Mary Ellen spoke on prayer, John on missionary work. I'm more grateful than I could say, that this little family is getting along so well. They seem to be prospering in all departments—spiritually, financially, maritally, etc. They understand each other, make allowances, are complementary one to another. Evening we played a couple of games and it was nice to be together.

[Tucson]

Spent part of the day at the storage place, putting in some extra furniture from Mary Ellen and John's. Afternoon we went to the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum and had a great time! Evening was quiet—reading, TV, etc.

[Tucson]

Pumped up the tires on Daddy's car, then bid Mom goodbye again and went to Coolidge. Visited Jerri and Susan, dropped off Donna, came to Tucson, where Amy was involved in a little play at school. Runaway Rabbits! Cute!! Nice to be with Mary Ellen's family.

[Mesa]

I worked until I got the latern's root ball out from under Mom's orange tree—a major job! I've tried that several times before, without success. Also got two palm trees from under there. Also some other little yard things.Read some, the Marian, Sue and Donna got there, with Kimball and Talmage. Visited some, then Susan and the boys left. We kept Donna for overnight. Had dinner at Sizzler (Donna liked that) and got her a permanent. A nice evening with our special daughter.

[Mesa]

Marian at Susan's. Me at Mesa. Pbtttt. I love the lady and hate to be away from her—especially now that we are missionary companions! She's having some time with Donna. I worked in Mom's yard part of the morning, went to Phoenix to the (?????) and got them squared away on getting our pictures in the missionary departures, got some more pictures of the family ordered from Welker(???), visited for a long time at the CES office. Charlie and I had a 1 hour session, then I had a brief time with Lund and a good session with Linc. Lund Johnson will be Mesa Institute director next year, and Lincoln Goodman will be associate area director. I feel good about those appointments. I always felt, or expected, that one day Linc would "fill my shoes." I told him that I didn't pick him, but that if I could have, I would have. Linc and Lund are true friends. It's a lot easier to leave my life-long job and move along knowing that they, and some others I have touched along the way, are in charge and growing with the work.

[Mesa]

Slow start, but finally got started out of Tucson. Saw a couple of model home areas on the way North. These were retirement communities, so not as desirable. Visited with Susan and left Marian there to stay while I came on back to Mesa to check on Mom. We're separated 'til Thursday. I don't like that—and anyway it's against mission rules! But this mother of mine needs some watching, and Carol isn't doing it like she's supposed to. A miserable evening (Anyone reading this diary can immediately detect here a sag in mission spirit. Boy do we need those visas!).

[Mesa]

Another nice day in Tucson. We enjoyed the kids a lot and it's always neat to be around Mary Ellen. Saw several groups of model home—just thinking ahead to when we get back. Saw a couple of really nice ones, which may not be within our reach. Evening we went over to Dave and Peggy's—to see their home addition and to enjoy their family. John was working, so Mary Ellen and the kids went too. Nice evening.

[Tucson]

Early start, down to Tucson by 8 am and Sunday Meetings with Mary Ellen's family. Nice ward. Nice people. The Campbells have made a good move to Tucson's Northwest side. Saw a few people I know—Bishop Craig Cook, he and Kathy were in my student branch; Anthony and Pierce Goodman. A lazy day with the kids, snoozing, etc. Some gospel study, a little language.

[Mesa]

Some more stuff around Mom's home. We shopped some. Met the Vanderpools at the drugstore. Mom's trying to trying to run us and showing her forgetfulness in the process. I've determined that it's probably not safe for her to be alone, but she's too stubborn to have it otherwise. After noon Marian and I went to Coolidge where we enjoyed Donna again and Susan's family. Shortly Dave, Mary Ellen and Mike and their families arrived. A nice dinner and enjoy-one-another time (There was an altercation, but I'm not going to expand on that—just try to help resolve it. This is part of the give-and-take of family life.). At the conclusion, we drove back to Mesa, to bring Mom Gibson home, spent the night in Mesa.

[Mesa]

A day of this and that. Trying to get our car on a new loan, mainly. In the evening John and Barbara came by, and Mike and Jerri too. Carol and Dale Frost were here part of the time. So it was a busy day.

[Provo-Mesa]

Breakfast, finish packing, load up --> we're on our way home! It was hard leaving the Chapmans. We'll see them in Portugal next, for sure. We headed down I-15, and didn't stop until near St. George, just off East of St. George in Hurricane. We went by there to see the Rodney (??) Nelsons. She is in Phoenix with her son David who was in a serious accident here in Arizona and is now trying to recover from head injuries. We saw him at the Seminary. Good to see Rod again!! At St. George we tried to call Sister Rex, but no one home. At Kingman I wasn't tired, so we came on in to Mesa all at once! 12.5 hours. When we got here, Mom was here so we checked in to the spare bedroom and here we are! Tired!

[Provo]

The day started out normal enough—the mid-week day hen old-timers here are in classes all day, to give space for new arrivals to roam the halls and have orientation sessions. It seemed Elder Peterson and Sister Harris were at their best—I learned a lot and progressed pretty well—I feel I'm catching onto the subjunctives and their indicators. Prior to suppertime Chapmans were called in to the travel office and were told that visas hadn't been heard from yet (This is normal—after 8 weeks you need to know your status!). Then we were called in and told the same. Sister Keller, who heads the travel office, then said we could work out arrangements with Brother Hill to go home and wait if we wanted. We decided that we wanted—so we saw Brother Eugene Hill, head of training. He gave us that option, so we're leaving in the morning! End of MTC. We started packing, call Mike's house and asked Reina to call around to let the family know, talked to Donna and packed some more. At 8:00 we went for ice cream to the Carousel (?) here in Provo with the Chapmans. Best ice cream! It was a farewell party, until we meet in Portugal! After scripture study and diaries we started our last rest in our small apartment here, which has become almost home. What lies ahead, we are uncertain, but we're through here!

[Provo]

We did our laundry first thing before and during breakfast—then studied 'til time for classes. A pretty normal day—morning and afternoon classes, no mail, evening was fireside with a General Authority. This time it was not normal. Elder Russell M. Nelson was speaker. he gave an unusual presentation—told us all about the Savior with slides and scriptures and descriptions. He bore witness of him—said he could only give his testimony of the Savior, that further knowledge he had of Him was sacred and he is limited by covenant in speaking of his experiences. Another neat—more needed—thing he said was to give us all an apostolic blessing. He blessed us as missionaries, then, seemingly as an afterthought, blessed our families. We need that. We are worried about Donna—she's losing weight and seems not to be settling in entirely at Susan's home. And we're concerned about Johnny. In fact, we're concerned about everyone—we love all our family so much.

The Wilson's stopped in to say goodbye. He had an exam, and some surgery is needed. They're going to San Diego for the surgery—from 3 to 8 weeks depending on what is found—then they'll fly straight to the Canary Islands from there.

Then finally at 9:30 we went up to the lobby and saw the (????)—LeGrande and Trudy and kids. They're here to see Curtis off. He leaves early tomorrow for his field of labor. So good to see Trudy, a true sister. Also a fabulous woman. If this world were full of Trudys, we'd already be in the millennium.

[Provo]

Classes all day. We mailed the acceptance of the house offer back, then got escrow instructions in the mail, so signed those and mailed them back, too. No other mail today. Both Marian and I feeling a little less than 100%, but making it. Oh, celestial duties this morning—I got toilet paper again. Classes morning, noon and night.

[Provo]

Today it was my turn to feel rotten. I went to Priesthood Meeting, then was so tired and punk I slept 'til Sacrament Meeting time, but didn't get awake enough to go, so missed it. But Marian brought me a dinner tray. I felt better in the afternoon. Evening gospel study class, then fireside. President Pinegar was better tonight, I thought. Spring is really doing a number on this valley right now. Beautiful. Took some pictures.

[Provo]

P-Day. Temple, where I kept waking up! We shopped, wrote letters, walked, called Melvin. We had dinner out—at Garcia's with the Chapmans. No Portuguese today—I'm bombed out. We got an air express letter from Gary Fuller today, to sign stuff for our house sale. We'll send it back Monday.

[Provo]

Our wedding day, 39 years ago. Marian is lovelier now than ever before. She's beautiful through and through, a lady in every way, and a spiritual force that I can see growing everyday. She is full of surprises and loves me more than I deserve. Far more! 39 years are just the beginning. If I can prove worthy of her, eternity is forever, and with my Marian, it will be worth having.

But today wasn't great, because she's sick. I brought breakfast and dinner to her on a tray. She made it to the cafeteria for lunch, but didn't eat much. She didn't go to her classes. In the evening we went for a drive for a half hour, then called Susan. Marian's worried about Donna. She's not eating and has lost 9 pounds since we left her. Sue says she cries sometimes and misses us. I suppose that's not too big a surprise for a child of 33 to miss her Mom and Dad. It's a lot of years to pattern, then get torn out of the pattern. The rest of the evening was spent with journal, letters and scriptures. This anniversary in Provo. Next anniversary in Portugal—40. Then 41 back with our family! I hope.

[Provo]

Full day back at the MTC. Said "hello" to Chylean (?), Darwin (?) and Marvin (?) Cook, Wilsons, Stanley Swain (?) (who just got here yesterday), Elder Eugene Hill, plus the language teachers. It was good to see them all. Elder Peterson was back as our morning teacher, had Elder McCloud afternoon. Evening Marian wasn't feeling well. I went out, got her cranberry juice. This morning I called Gary Fuller but his machine was turned on, called Mack Bowen to report on the plane trip and find out about the box we're shipping to Portugal. Spent a quiet evening writing letters.

[Provo]

Without a car, we feel real isolated! (But not for long!!) We studied language until time to call CES to see what they'll do with us. After several calls and much standing by the payphone outside the laundromat, we got our directions. Our tickets back to the MTC were to be at the American Airlines ticket counter, fly back to SLC, re-enter the MTC until further word, because the Missionary Department still can't get ahold of the European Area Presidency to ask them if we could go to Arizona. But at least the Committee can get us back to the MTC. So, at 12:30 we get to the Springfield, ML airport, and American Airlines doesn't have our tickets, doesn't have a plane leaving for SLC until 3:50, doesn't have that flight number,even. Upon searching, they found that our tickets were at Springfield, Illinois! So we spent a long afternoon at the airport! They put us on their 3:50, we flew to Dallas in a small "Eagle", then a larger plane to SLC, arrival 8:25. Kurt and Sandy picked us up, we drove to the MTC arriving at 10:00. Checked back into our same room, said "hi" to the Chapmans, and retired into blissful slumber, halfway back home. And glad to be home.

[Springfield, MO]

Up real early, visit Bro Anderson's institute class here in Springfield and 2 Early-morning classes in the same building. No comment. As soon as we could, we called Frank Bradshaw and he was in a meeting but asked us to call back in 2 hours and talk to Mack Bowen. That was good news, because I knew then that Frank wasn't going to say "no," but that the message might be positive. When I called Mack 2 hours later, he said that they were trying to get thru to Germany (that is, the missionary committee was) to get Elder Asay's approval forms to return to Arizona. Because we're on a regular mission, we're under the missionary committee, not CES! So, call back in 1 1/2 hours! I called back and Mack and Frank were both on the box, and said the Committee couldn't reach Elder Asay yet, but that if they couldn't break it loose soon, they would fly us back to the MTC. That's OK—better than this never-never-land we find ourselves in at present. Meanwhile thru the day we did our laundry, mailed Donna a package, ate a Taco Bell lunch and Trotter's dinner, studied Portuguese a lot, took two walks, went to Anderson's and presented them with 2 books for thank-you, and generally tried to keep busy and our minds off our problems. Last thing at night Anderson's came by to pick up the car so he can go to Kansas tomorrow for his institute class there.


This is a very difficult experience for me. I know we should return to Arizona, but can't get permission to go. I feel I'm in a similar box to that of my great-grandfather, William Jordan Flake upon arrival at the Little Colorado settlements when he was sent to settle in Arizona. He didn't like the looks of things there, felt it wasn't right for his family, so he didn't stay. Some criticized him for not following counsel. Some said he was an apostate. But he felt he was right so he went to find a better settle-down place. Hence, Snowflake!! I feel that same way. I hope Elder Asay can see us home to Arizona to finish waiting for our visas, and meanwhile we can attend the temple, help our affairs along, counsel with John, squeeze grandkids, etc. In MO, nothing but Portuguese (And I have found—she has found— that I'm not the Portuguese teacher Marian needs!). Even as far back as the MTC will be helpful, for the language will continue to blossom.

[Springfield, MO]

Left early with Bro. Anderson for Williard, nearby, for 2 back-to-back Seminary classes. Back to the apartment and breakfast. We worked through the morning at language and gospel study. I met with Anderson in the afternoon, then we fixed dinner here and spent the evening walking, a little shopping, fixing a box to mail to Donna, and language.

I made the decision that we ought to return to Arizona for now—we've really done all we can do here, and this stuff is real repetitious. In Arizona we can do a lot of needful stuff! I called Frank Bradshaw and he's checking with the mission department—Bro. Eakley. I'll call tomorrow and see if I can get concurrence!!

[Springfield, MO]

John Campbell's B-Day. Springfield 2nd Ward meetings this morning. We were well received! We got more "hellos" and introductions in one morning from sincere, well-wishing people than we did in 6 months in Huntington Beach. It seems like a very nice ward and I could enjoy these people very much. We went to dinner at Anderson's—a real nice Sunday dinner fixed by Shirley. Called Gary Fuller about the house—he's got a sale and it looks good!! We found a Western Union office and wired approval to him (cost $63 for 2 wires—him and his colleague). A lazy afternoon in the apartment—a little snooze, diary catch-up, map consulting and 4 Nephi preparation. Stayed home in the evening and went to be early—zonked.

[Springfield, MO]

Up a little late after a bad night. The bed is not good. I hope our backs hold up. We shopped a little for groceries, then at 3:00 left for a supersaturday in Joplin, about 70 miles west. Sister Anderson accompanied Bro Anderson—she's his secretary, thus the custodian of reports. We attended a meeting of high counselor with stake seminary presidency, then a scripture chase for all who wanted to compete. Then we attended a teachers' faculty meeting while the Joplin Stake held their monthly youth dance. We got home at 11:00. We got news today that Gary Fuller has sold our Huntington Beach house again, and we need to call him (he wasn't home when we tried). Also we got our medicines finally. I have plenty of Tagamet for the duration, but Marian will have to restock on her two medicines. Got a letter from John's family. Cute!! All the boys wrote who can write. Nice letter from Barbara.

The trip to Joplin showed off the Missouri countryside in early spring. Some trees are just starting to leaf out, but mostly the trees are still bare. But the Forsythia (masses of golden yellow), Red-bud (a pinkish-red blossom all over trees), and god-wood (both off-white and a salmon-red blossom all over trees) are magnificent. Springtime in Missouri sure puts on a show! The hills are all covered in green grass for spring—everything in rolling hills—no mountains at all, and no flatland to speak of, just rolling hills. Limestone outcroppings are everywhere, and the soil appears to be fairly shallow at Springfield deepening over toward Joplin. Lots of cattle grazing here about, with not much tilled land. Also, I hear there are lots of caves for spelunking—the limestone dissolves and leaves an underground cavern. This claims to be the heart of the Ozarks, but I haven't see any Ozarks!

Oops! I almost forgot! We stopped in at the local AAA office and got maps of this territory plus our international driver's licenses. We each got licensed so that we can meet all contingencies while in Portugal.

[Springfield, MO]

We slept in a little. Breakfast across the street, then hair-do across another street while I studied language. We got into a small apartment and got settled. The Andersons had arranged it, and the Fantauzzis own it. They gave us a very good deal—only $30/week and we can leave when we want. Such nice people. Andersons came back a little later and gave us their car to use. They took us out to dinner at Trotters a great restaurant where we really tied on the feedbags, last night I got to contemplating the information already received from Brother Anderson, and looking at our condition. I suggested this morning that we'll see all we can see in a week. We made it a matter of prayer, and feel we've had a confirmation that we should leave and go back to Mesa in a week on Monday. I don't see any reason to stay here beyond that date. And, we'd much rather spend our time in Arizona 'til visas are approved. Bro. Anderson took that information in stride, and even appeared somewhat relieved, because he seemed to be scratching pretty hard to find ways to keep us occupied. That's what we'll do!

[Springfield, MO]

I mention family members' B-days. I should mention today that our families' greatest and most-honored member has His birthday today. I refer to our Eldest Brother, our Savior and Redeemer, the Great Jehovah. So this is a special day. We got up early, quick breakfast in the hotel, and went to Curt and Sandy Nelson's. Curt said he'd take us to the airport, and keep our car for us while we're in Missouri. He took us, and we checked in. Curt and Sandy are so nice. Our flight was at 8:20, United Airlines. The plane was full. A 35 minute delay for fixing an errant compass. Then a pleasant flight to Denver. Boeing 727. Then an hour stopover while changing planes to a 737, and the flight to Springfield. We hoped our luggage would make the plane change, too. We took 7 bags and checked 4 of them. Two totes and a briefcase were carry-on. A nice flight, however a little bumpy and the plane was only half full. Nicer stewardesses, too. Sister Shirley Anderson met us at the little Springfield airport (The airport reminded me of Farmington, N.M.—about that size.). She's a lovely lady with 13 children! She had the 3 youngest with her. She said we'd have an apartment ready tomorrow and we'll need a motel tonight (actually, they offered a room in their home, but we demurred. We're causing them a lot of extra work and expense as it is!). After awhile, Bro. Mike Anderson came home from teaching a class. They've been here about 12 years. Took us to a motel. We had dinner at a nice little restaurant across the street, then Mike came for us and took us to a home study class at the church here. Only 2 of the kids were there, and 5 were not. The teacher was very well prepared and we had a good lesson on family communication. It was very cold and windy when Bro. Anderson got us back to our motel. We were cold and ready to retire.

[Salt Lake City]

Went to class to tell the teachers goodbye. Elder Lucero was the only one there, so the word is out and the teachers are pulled off! I wrote thank-you notes to Elder Petersen and Sister Harris, and left them at the Training Office. Then we cleaned our apartment and packed the car. Packed! About 1:30 we checked out. Our bill was $672 for room and board for six weeks. That was a memorable six weeks. A real sweet-sour time. Sweet for most reasons, sour because of the confinement, regimentation, and most of all our being "different kind of missionaries"—education missionaries and they didn't know what to do with us most of the time. We drove to SLC and went to Bookcraft, where we had a good talk with Russell Orton and Marv Wallen. Then on to our appointment with Bradshaw and Euvrard. They were at a chapel near downtown SLC where the Area Directors' convention is being held. We saw a number of our friends there—Charlie, Randy, Mack Bowen, etc.

The meeting with Frank and Christian was 1 hour, helpful and informative. Christian went over the area, the personnel and the problems with us. Declining percent of Portugal Youth enrolled in Seminary is a real concern: 30% in '86-'87, 17% in '87-'88, and 12% in '88-'89! That's real scary! The problem seems to be, large numbers entering the Church, but not being picked up by the CES. Looks like a lot of work to be done there! He (Christian) outlined some possibilities for Marian and me: possible location at Coimbra, possible separate district to work, probable car to drive, etc. Christian had some questions on budget (which didn't get answered well at all) and we broke up.

We saw Ken Godfrey on the street. He told us he loved us. That's always nice to know. Then we went up to Russell's condo. PLUSH. LUSH. BIG. IMPRESSIVE. WOW. First time I've seen that place. He lives there all alone since his wife divorced him—4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, the entire 1/2 of a floor of that big place! The elevator goes only to the 7th floor, and when it gets there, his is the only place (the other side of the condos is served by another elevator). We had a nice chat then drove down to central SLC to eat Spanish food. Then back to his condo and we talked and talked. He needed that: about old times and old friends, about his problems with his former wife, etc. It was neat. We went back to the Double Tree Hotel, where we're staying, and visited with Charlie and Olga Beckert awhile. Charlie wanted to visit about Arizona Area personnel and Olga wanted to visit Marian. She thinks Marian is the greatest ever! And she is! I love her more everyday. We retired really late. Nice room!

Before closing the day: I expressed the "sour" back there, referring to the MTC. The sweet is far more extensive. Great, wonderful people; a program that could only be believed if seen, it's wonderful; unusually high-quality and -quantity food; all that and friends we'll never forget. We truly hated to leave the Chapmans. The only solace was that we'll see them again shortly in Portugal. The Church has created a remarkable place there. We will remember it with fondness the rest of our lives.

[Provo]

Classes as usual, but a real twist today! First: Marian had her blood tested and it was 52. That's great news. Normal is 60-160. I think that means it's good. We've been eating regular and well, each are feeling good and each have lost several pounds. At about 2:30 this afternoon I was working with Sister Harris and Brother Hill (head of training) walked in with the news that we're all finished at MTC!!!! Tomorrow we have a 4pm meeting with Frank Bradshaw and Christian Euvrard (Frank's Zone Administrator for Europe, Christian is Area Director for Europe), stay overnight in S.L.C., then fly to Springfield, Missouri Thursday morning, there to stay and train in Home Study until our visas come through! This is sudden! We've been scurrying ever since, starting to pack, starting to say goodbyes, telephoning the family. Our medicines aren't here. What a mess! At night we had our Fireside and Elder Arthur Kay was speaker. He gave a real good talk, recorded elsewhere. We retired real late for our last night at the MTC (Late we visited Warren "Jota" and Enid Wilson. They've been good friends here again.).

[Provo]

Celestial duties first thing. We changed all the toilet paper. Classes all day. I about had my fill of Para and Por. Morning and afternoon. I just can't seem to get it lined out straight. At night I did my tarefa, then studied grammar alone—no teacher. I like that. I'll have Sister Harris check it tomorrow—she's my best grammarian. It rained and snowed a little today and turned really cold. Seems that Conference let out too early for the usual blustery time! Lincoln's B-Day!!

[Provo]

4th and 5th Session of General Conference. We started Daylight Savings Time this early a.m. in Utah, and all the rest of the country except good old AZ. So, I had to set my watch ahead 1 hour. President Monson led off with a real fine report about the Church in East Germany. What a story of faith, sacrifice, courage and living the Gospel. Those Saints in the German Democratic Republic are in for huge crowns studded with jewels! After 50 years of oppression now they have a temple, stakes, new buildings, and both missionaries entering from the western world and missionaries leaving East Germany for foreign countries. A Miracle—in every way!! The head of the Republic, in a meeting with President Monson said, "We have watched you for 20 years. How can we help you." And the doors opened!!

President Hinckley said that the great Pole Star in our work is Love— the great constant in the Lord's work. This has the power to lift us above evil and conflict. Sister Joy Evans, 1st counselor in the Relief Society spoke. That was nice. Significant statement: God watches over us, but He meets our needs through another mortal!

After the last session of Conference, and after dinner, we got in the car and went to see Diane Orton in Alpine. She was home, and we had a real nice visit. She's busy with BYU courses she's taking. Still hasn't sold the huge house. She's proud of Scott who's on a mission to Pennsylvania Pittsburgh.

[Provo]

The big thing today was General Conference. It was a most significant conference, not just for the quality of talks given, but because of the business. Historic. The 2nd Quorum of the 70 was organized, with the 7 presidents presiding over both 70s Quorums. If I got the message straight, the First Quorum of the 70 will include all permanent general authorities of the Seventy. The 2nd Quorum will include the men on 5-year assignments. If that is the case, then John Carmack is now a life-time general authority, and so will be Joe J. Christensen and Jeffrey R. Holland, for they were sustained with the First Quorum. So, now the general authorities can continue to proliferate as the work keeps progressing. With so much happening, we need all the help we got! I feel that most certainly at some not-so-future date we will see a 3rd Quorum and so forth (That's a prediction, not a prophecy). The talks given by Elder Ashton and Elder Packer were both phenomenal—really classics. Elder Ashton spoke on Worthiness—That we are not the ones to determine temple—and ordinance—worthiness. That is the job of Bishops and Stake Presidents. Elder Packer spoke to the youth. A well-delivered, much-needed look at their lives and their options. He told the youth to conquer the "Black Knight." The pedigree of their spirit can be written as a single line—they are literally "a child of God." Never give up! President Benson's opening message was on Pride. He hit the subject very hard. He said the Lord wants this word to go to Saints and the world now. No righteous pride in the scriptures (he's right—I checked!) it's all negative in usage, which reinforces the fact that God is down on pride! "What men will think of me is stronger than what God will think of me!" The inactive are proud. Those not on missions are proud. Temple work is negatively affected by pride. Etc. Elder Hunter delivered a good talk, and fell right in the middle of it. His legs gave out (He was operated on and a nerve was severed—he could never walk again—but he does with aid of a walkers!!). He walked to the pulpit. After the fall Elder Packer stayed by his side through the balance of his talk. A significant statement: Faith precedes the miracle. But faith also follows the miracles—it must! (Otherwise the Saints wouldn't be Perfected—my extension on his remarks) Elder Hunter showed the Church true grit today. His courage brought tears to my eyes. And, he was going on with his talk as soon as they got his head above the pulpit so he could see the prompter. He didn't repeat a word, didn't apologize, but just went on reading as though nothing had happened. I recall that the past 2 or 3 conferences he has given his talk from a wheelchair. Some stats (as of the end of 1988):

6,720,000 members. 1707 stakes. 11,976 words. 222 missions. 41 temples.

Growth 1988: 73,000 child baptisms, 256,515 convert baptisms.

36,132 full-time missionaries at end of year in 125 nations.

Oh, also, Elder Oaks gave his usual powerful talk. It was on voices, and he hit unauthorized and unqualified voices hard—those who try to or assume to speak for the Church—non-members, former members and members—all unauthorized, unaccountable and poorly informed. Thesheep will hear and know the voice of the Shepherd. Then he gave the shepherds—bishops and stake presidents—a strong charge to teach, tech true doctrine, monitor classes, watch the speakers at meetings, see that truth goes to the members. Also avoid controversy, arguments and discussion with commentators, etc. "When attacked by error, silence is better then incomplete, unbalanced rhetoric."

Priesthood meeting at night was good, too. Needless to say, I was impressed with General Conference. We're in safe hands.

[Provo]

P-Day today instead of tomorrow because of conference. We went to the temple. I was so tired I didn't enjoy it much. I've got to get a handle on this tiredness problem. Marian had a hair appointment so I browsed at 70's Bookstore. Then we had an early lunch at KFC. Shopping at the Mall. Dinner here at the cafeteria, then class.

[Provo]

A not-much-going day. Classes am and afternoon. Branch meeting at night, then a trip to our district room (31 Flavors) with the Chapmans. We had a splendid time. Got much accomplished. Got a letter from Jan. Marian cried. Jan is very special. Wrote a letter to Walmir and Yedda.

[Provo]

New missionary day again. We've been here five weeks. Walter and Maxine Halliday got here today. Classes all day. We left early at the evening class because our teacher wasn't there, and because Marian is feeling nauseous and head-achey again. We came back and turned on the vaporizer. She took a congestion pill. By 9:12 (now) she's feeling better. The vaporizer makes a big difference, but we dislike it intensely. We got letters today from President Borquist, Frank and K, and Johnny. Big day at the mailbox!

[Provo]

Melvin's B-Day. He should have our card by now. We love that fine son. He is being groomed for leadership among his people, the Lamanites, and will rise as high as he wants. I'm grateful for his love and acceptance of our family. A high point in my life will always be the day he was sustained in Kirtland, and my privilege to ordain him a high priest. Today was classes all the way, and the regular fireside tonight. Only it wasn't "regular." It was Elder and Sister Sonntag (Philip T.). They gave us a real super evening. She, with all the pep and spark imaginable, talked 1st. Theme: Missionary Work.


Then Elder Sonntag talked. He gave a super talk. Subject: Missionary Work. Very lively, full of stories—mostly centered on the Pacific=Matthew Cowley style. The choir sang perfectly, of course. I congratulated Brother Brenchley again. We sang "Called To Serve Him" and I bawled once more. Then did it again during the closing prayer=the young elder did so well, and humbly.He choked as he pleaded for strength for us all, and success for us all. There is so much power in these meetings. As we left the hall, Marian said it was our best meeting yet. I agree. Sister Chapman just couldn't stop tearing—wiped her eyes all the way to the apartments. Saw Joe and Doris Childers again. Saw Rich Frost—he'll leave tomorrow. It's been good to see him regularly and catch his spirit at this important moment of his life. No mail again today. The busy lives back home sure do put a lonely streak into the lives of the ones searching the mailbox!

A funny thing happened—embarrassing but needs to be told, I think. After returning to the apartment, I remembered my briefcase was still in the main building hall. Marian said she'd walk with me. I grabbed my coat out of the closet, where I'd just put it. We got to the main building and saw Joe and Doris Childers and some members of their branch. As we stood talking, President Pinegar and his wife came by and chatted and then Elder Sonntag, his wife and daughters came by. They also stopped and chatted, asked where we were going, talked to Joe and Doris, etc. A fine, short gathering. Then we broke up, we went back to the apartment, they on to home and such. They had kept looking at my badge, which I proudly wear (name-tag, that is). When Marian and I got home, and as I was unlocking the door, I looked down, and for the first time saw that I had grabbed the wrong coat!! I had on my gray suit pants and my medium-blue suit coat! A sport garb! Against all mission rules! And, no name-tag! No wonder all kept looking at it—it wasn't there!! I was horrified, embarrassed, majorly mortified! I may go down as the first of the seniors here to get kicked out of the MTC! Tomorrow if the loudspeaker summons me to the President's office, I'll just fade away (No—old teachers just lose their class!).

[Provo]

Hit the language real hard today. Early was celestial duties—we did the stairs, the mirrors and glass, and emptied the garbage. Evening Marian was a little wiped out. Wrote a letter to President Copeland today, asking about a car and several other things. Called Russell Orton—Marian enjoyed the talk. In bed by 10:00.

[Provo]

Easter Sunday. The commemoration of our Savior's resurrection. What a day. What a Man. I'm so grateful. My constant prayer of thanks is for Him. It's a cold, rainy day here in Provo. Fast Sunday. Mission Conference. Fast and Testimony Meeting in the Branch. Study time and a little snooze afternoon. I wrote letters yesterday and today to all the kids, Mom and Carol. Gospel study session and Fireside at night. Another Sunday at the MTC—

[Provo]

A temple session—I was real impressed with it. Sometimes it's greater than at other times. This one was a good one. We went with the Chapmans, then to BYU bookstore to return a book and pick up some stuff. I called National Rx Services and sent the Rxs to her which I got from the Dr. here. I also asked for $54 back, because they didn't fill our order right. Marian's hair appointment at 10:30, so I called Mike during it and found that there is difficulty with our income tax stuff. We talked a long time about it. Joe Palmer needs some stuff and we tried to figure out what all he needed. Also, Palmer tells us the IRS is wanting $2,100 more dollars for 1986 tax. A problem with the profit-sharing payoff from Bookcraft. We'll get it straightened out. Picked up some stuff at the drug store and returned to MTC. The evening was class, and I'm on my own now evenings. Whoopee!

[Provo]

First thing we did the laundry. That's a load off our minds. Now we can again enjoy P-day tomorrow! During a break I called Gary Fuller and told him to put the selling price of our condo up $14,000 to $253,900—and put it back on the market. If the people faulted, maybe the Lord wants us to get more out of it. Classes all day. The language is coming some better, but still a long way to go. Marian's feeling fine now and getting stronger in her walking. I'm feeling fine, too. No mail today, but we sent a B-Day card to Melvin. His B-Day is Monday.

Chapmans continue to be a delight. They are so funny and so much fun. They seem to enjoy us, too. Lasting friendship here, maybe.

[Provo-Alpine]

We decided to up the price of the condo and put it back on the market. The medicine battle continues. I went to the sick bay to try to talk the doctor out of prescription for Marian's medicine and my Tagamet. He was real reluctant, but by mid-afternoon he had resolved, with help from an internist friend, that he'd give me all the Tagamet I need for 18 months. But he'd only give us enough of Salcitensin for 6 months, because he said body salts must be monitored (possible heart arrest) and enough Tolectin for 9months, because he says it could lead to ulcers in some people. I've fought it as long as I can. I'll take these prescriptions and send them to National Rx and when we need more in Portugal, we'll take care of it there. Classes as usual today morning and afternoon. Evening was branch meetings. The Parkers gave some despedidos (goodbyes), and one other couple. Parkers don't know yet if their visas are coming, but they're due to finish here right now (8 1/2 weeks on the weekend). We're all rooting for their departure because that could mean that our own will be on time.

After the meeting, Chapmans, Parkers and we bundled into an MTC van and went to Alpine to visit with the Bangerters—he and his family were there to open up Portugal/Spain for CES. We had a really nice hour and a half. They have lots of good stories and advice, and some stuff like azulejos and brass stuff and paintings around. Very nice, very hospitable, lots of fun. Got back late with the van in one piece.

[Provo]

New missionary day at the MTC. Ethel Goodman arrived—one of the world's neat people! She's going to Mexico City East Mission, and her companion Live's mother—Geneil Goodman! Both will be in our branch, and we had dinner with them. So good to see old dear friends. Our day otherwise was uneventful. Marian rebounded, and feels good. In fact, she looked great and tonight was able to walk around farther than at any other time in months! This is obviously a blessing from the Lord and a partial, minute, fulfillment of President Kempton's setting-apart blessing. Study language and other stuff all day. No mail. Got a call late from Gary Fuller. It looks as though our house sale is falling through. The people have unqualified themselves at the loan department—she quitting work and he changing jobs! What a blow—maybe. If they fault, the house goes back on the market—we won't accept their proposal of lease—for sale at the end of the year. Our feeling is to get rid of that place, even if it is a goldmine, real-estate-in-Orange-County-wise. If we put it back on the market, we'll raise the praise. That's our feeling right now, but we'll sleep on it and let Gary know.

[Provo]

Right about here should be the vernal equinox. The 21, 22, or 23. But how would I know? We get no newspapers, no magazines except Church News and Ensign. No radios. I only hear about Arizona tearing up the NCAA by accident. I know they are in the final 16. We don't know the weather, except as we see it happen. This is a very strange twist in my life. I must say we're both holding up well under the strain. Maybe all the current affairs aren't so necessary after all!

A usual day, sort of. Chapman's are in Salt Lake again on their computer training. Classes morning and afternoon. After the pm class, Marian felt really rotten, so she stayed in and slept this evening. Bad headache, eyes hurting and stinging. Don't know what it is. We still have the vaporizer going day and night. She's taking 4 kinds of pills (Maybe that's it!). Tonight at 7:00 was fireside for all. Elder Joseph L. Wirthlin was featured speaker and Sister Wirthlin. It's always great to hear from an apostle. He spoke on missionary work (what else!). After the talk I chatted with some of the Sister missionaries going to Portugal and Brazil. Great young women!! Marian was feeling some better by bedtime.

[Provo]

Yep, it snowed last night a little. The mountains looked fabulous. But with the weather not cold enough to support it, the snow melted off them by noon. Cool still, with a cold wind. Chapman's went TDY to Salt Lake to get trained in Church membership and finance procedures using computers. They returned in time for evening class. We had regular classes with our teachers. Celestial duties this morning—halls, stairs, garbage. This evening we went to the culture class with the young elder and sisters—first time. I liked it. Elder Johnson gave a good presentation. Near the end, it opened up to Church Education there in Portugal. The two teachers there got real excited about our calling, and really tickled that Chapman's and we were going to Porto. All the young elders shook our hands, and said they'd see us in Portugal. Sounds good to me. We've run the vaporizer all day, and Marian seems fine. Blessings!!!!

[Provo]

A rainy day. Tonight it still had a little drizzly. If it keeps it up tonight, we could have some snow. We noticed on the way to dinner that the snow level is down almost to the bottom of the hills right now. Branch meeting, study time, a lecture by President Flicklin on history of the Portugal Mission. That was nice. I've got notes on it elsewhere. Wrote letters to my two CES bosses—Faustino Lopez and Christian Ewrard. Tonight was the fireside with President Pinegar. Subject: Communication. Marian acts like she's coming down with a cold. Hope not.

[Provo]

Temple time again. The Chapman's went with us, and it was good, and this time a serious, time. A good session (actually, there was no bad sessions). A curious thing happened, though. Marian has been putting a name in the Temple for the prayer circles each time she goes. This day she took the card, and wrote her own name! She says she tried to write the other name, but her hand was guided to write her own name! It startled her, then she took another card and wrote the name she had intended. I don't know what specific blessing she needs additional faith-and-prayer help on, but it's neat that she'll get it. Even though she never sought it. I went to the BYU bookstore for grammar and other books for Portugal, then took Marian to get her hair done. Back at the MTC we took the Chapman's to the shopping mall for some shopping. After dinner, our teacher didn't show up, so we had the evening. We spent most of it studying and reading our assignment in the New Testament. We called the kids, who are all together tonight at Mary Ellen's house for the first of their get-togethers while we're gone. It was great talking to each one. It made us both home-sick, but "what else is new?"

[Provo]

The day was fairly ordinary and Marian got two new teachers—Elder Jensen and Sister Bradbury. Now she can move at her own pace, for it is 1 on 1 teaching. In the evening we had a cultural event after the regular evening session with Sister Bezas. Elders Lucero and Davis brought their slides and some stuff from Portugal. It was nice. Elder Lucero brought his wife, as did Elder Mcleod (the Parker's teacher) and the Parkers were there and we had a good time with refreshments. Cassie's B-Day!!!

[Provo]

Marian much improved this morning! That vaporizer and President Kempton's blessing of health, really helped greatly. She's going to go on the medication as soon as it comes, but she's already on the mend! Classes morning. Afternoon was spent mostly on Corey Bangerter coming to brief Marian and me on Portugal. He spent nearly two hours answering, briefing, reminiscing, etc. It was very agreeable and helpful. Corey was in Brazil when his father was mission president there, then returned as a missionary, then went to Portugal/Spain to start CES, then back to Brazil as president of the Rio Mission. There probably aren't too many better informed of things Portuguese. I asked about Walmir Silva, my old friend. He startled us by telling us that Walmir and Yedda are inactive! He said the handicapped daughter had committed suicide several years ago, and the blow caused a retrogression for the couple. What a shame! That greatly saddens me! I must write to him and see if I can get an answer. It has been years—. Branch meeting tonight, then District meeting at 31 Flavors. Nice!! Marian's still feeling lots better and the vaporizer and the tape player are singing.

[Provo]

A difficult day because Marian got sick. But first—I called Stan Peterson back to get the results of his inquiries on our behalf. He said Don Bond would set up the home study visit. He said Corey Bangerter would get with us right away—he's the one who opened up Spain and Portugal for CES—and help us with perspectives and ideas. And he confirmed our call—that the Brethren's concern over Portugal was such that they asked CES for a recommendation on a couple to go in and aid the struggling program in that fast growing land. Upon CES recommending us to Elder Asay, Europe Area President, the call came through regular missionary channels. So, our call is standard but our assignment there is special. Okay—that's about how we had it figured. We are so very honored to be chosen and called. That call, and the events since, have reconfirmed to my soul the love the Lord has, even for me! Unworthy, unable often, unprepared but He keeps giving me opportunity to grow and to help others do likewise. And it reaffirms my long-standing conviction that none of this would have come, and could not be possible, without my precious Marian. So good and gentle always. So caring. And now --> so blossoming! I stand and watch her unfold in this assignment. It is a wonder to behold! She not only is able and talented, she is really good! This mission will be a landmark for her in an unexpected way.

Then after the call, we went to get some more information turned in to the health center for our visas. And by noon, Marian was sick with a sinus infection! She missed pm and evening classes. We ordered a prescription to whip the infection, and got a vaporizer to use. She seemed a little better late evening.

[Provo]

Well, all isn't peachy-creamy yet! Elder Slezak didn't get with us, but sent Elder Flores to see if we wanted new teachers. Missed communication!! I'll give it another day!! Called again on the medicine we've been trying to get. Maybe it will come in right this time. Mailed off the escrow stuff. The only different part of the day was the fireside tonight. Elder Hugh Pinnock was speaker. Subject: Obedience. Later we visited with Elder and Sister (Jota and Enid) Wilson in their room. Nice to have friends close.

Just a further comment about this companion I have. Best one I ever had. Marian is coming along so well in the language and discussions. I'm more than proud of her; I more than love her. She's branching out and becoming an inspiration to those about her. She's better at the discussions than I am, and a lot of her Portuguese pronunciation is better than mine. She's had two teachers from Portugal. My Brazilian teachers are neat people, but I don't get Portugal dialect and pronunciation. But that's only an observation—not to detract from Marian's accomplishments. She's doing great, and I'm more than proud. Melissa's B-Day today.

[Provo]

First thing I called Stan Peterson at CES—Associate Commissioner—for an appointment. He said to come right up. I also got an appointment with Eugene Hill, director of training here at the MTC. We went to Salt Lake City, and to the 9th floor of the Church Office Building. Stan was waiting for us. He gave us a good audience, and pledged to get things to happen—check on our visas, get us with Corey Bangerter (who has been CES in Portugal a few years ago), see that we got to a home study setting for an experience, and see what else he could do to have the experiences of a CES missionary couple learning a foreign language to be a good one. He told us we are the first ever to do this particular assignment—go on a foreign-language education mission. We are "guinea-pigs" (his words). As Frank Bradshaw previously put it, we are writing the book.

The difference between us and previous education missionaries is the language. No one before has had to learn one—all went to English-language missions. They were called, spent a week at the MTC for "flavor" (his words again), then off to work on Seminaries and Institutes somewhere. It was felt that we needed full time at the MTC for the language. So, that's why we're sent here on a full-shot basis. I felt that's where the misunderstanding has come in. Here we've been slotted with all other missionaries who were called for leadership and for proselyting.

So, back to MTC and the appointment with Brother Hill. He said frankly, "we haven't known what to do with you." But he is anxious to meet our needs and to schedule help in whatever way is helpful. We'll get with Elder Slezak (our zone leader) tomorrow to set up a better program. It looks as though our struggling and discomfort will finally pay off.

We got a letter from Mary Ellen today in the mail, also a card from her and John from Hawaii. They are there on an Equitable vacation. Also got the stuff to sign for the escrow on the house sale. We signed everything tonight to get it right back and finalized.

[Provo]

Well, it took 5 meals to get there, and then the Lord prompted me on the course to take. I'm grateful for the principle of prayer and fasting. I missed breakfast, went to priesthood meeting, missed lunch after sacrament meeting, then met with President Mineer for a few minutes. That was the result of my getting the Spirit. I asked him if I could have permission to go to Salt Lake and talk to Stan Peterson, and also talk to Brother Eugene Hill here at the MTC. He gave me permission to see both. Marian and I talked in the afternoon and I got further help from her. She had some good ideas.

Here's the plan. With Stan's input and Brother Hill's, we see that for starters we can use BYU here. Audit a conversational Portuguese class. Take a self-study course = Language, Culture, History. Go to a Home Study seminary Saturday. Talk to Stan about visas. There are some things!!

Late dinner, then evening gospel study class (the teacher didn't show) and devotional. Oh, Ruth Ann (Lewis) Brooks, husband David and little newborn girl come visiting and brought cookies and fruit. So nice. The baby's beautiful and they're so proud of her.

[Provo]

P-Day and I'm fasting. We went to the Temple with the Chapman's. At the chapel, while waiting for the session, I picked up the middle Book of Mormon from the rack in front of me. Without looking, I ruffled the pages, the opened it--to Abraham 3!! Inadvertently, I had picked up a D&C. My reading proceeded in a very unusual way.



Vs 3. "These are the governing ones...I have set this one (Kolob) to govern all those which belong to the same order as that upon which thou standest."



Vs 6. "...These two facts exist...vs 8. And where these two facts exist, there shall be another fact above them...vs 16. If two things exist, and there be one above the other, there shall be greater things above them... vs 18...If there be two spirits, and one shall be more intelligent than the other...vs 19...there are two spirits, one being more intelligent than the other; there shall be another more intelligent than they; I am the Lord thy God, I am more intelligent than they all...vs 21...my wisdom exceedeth them all, for I rule in the heavens above, and in the earth beneath, in all wisdom and prudence, over all the intelligences...from the beginning..."



I didn't need to go on to vs 25. I never turned 2 pages I knew what He said there: "And we will prove them herewith, to see if they will do all things whatsoever the Lord their God shall command them." Well, you could have knocked me over. Here's what I received: I am not the smartest. There are people smarter. And the Smartest of All is my Lord and God, my Savior. Who called me on this mission? Me? Bradshaw, Elder Asay? No, He did. Will I leave it? Never. I sat in the temple humbled. I closed the Book of D&C and pondered. Then I opened it again to another place. 2nd Jolt!!



D&C 88:12 "Which light proceedeth forth from the presence of God to fill the immensity of space--" I passed my eyes across the verses and found the subject a continuation of the previous scripture—Abraham 3. Vs 22 "For he who is not able to abide the law of a celestial kingdom cannot abide a celestial glory." This was for me. Continuing. Vs. 33 "For what doth is profit a man if a gift is bestowed upon him, and he receive not the gift? Behold he rejoices not in that which is given unto him, neither rejoices in him who is the giver of the gift." Vs. 35 "That which...abideth not by law, but seeketh to become a law unto itself, and willeth to abide in sin, and altogether abideth in sin, cannot be justified by law, neither by mercy, justice nor judgment. Therefore they must remain filthy still." Vs. 38 "...unto every law there are certain bounds also and conditions." Vs. 39 "All beings who abide not in those conditions are not justified."



And so it goes. I could go clear to verse 62 --> and peel out instructions to me. All these things become my message during 10 minutes in the chapel of the Provo Temple. What's the message? I don't know in full yet. I think I'll learn a lot more in the next few days. I'll ponder this. I know already, however, and this is no surprise, that the Lord lives, he knows I am here, and He knows I hurt. This knowledge humbles me beyond my ability to describe. I'll find my way out of this. And, with His hand in mine, I'll do His will. And so will my sweet Marian.


So I fasted all day. We did the laundry, Marian got her hair done, we shopped. We didn't go to the evening class, which was a warm-up for Monday morning's proselyting go. I need to know a lot more about our role here and our mission expectations before I'll know how to serve God best.

[Provo]

A full day, a hard day. All morning we worked on discussion--no language training. Part of the afternoon we worked on Portuguese, then evening no language--only a diatribe on goal setting. It was the Sister at her best--condescending and full of her own "cutesies". By the time the day was over, we had about had it! We would have traded the MTC in for almost anything!

Bright spot of the day was a super letter from Russy. He wrote the most grown-up, well-composed, good-penmanship letter I've seen--4 pages. He had been in a Portuguese book and gave us a menu for a meal and other good stuff! Made my day!

The day finished, I'm pained to say, on such a negative note that I couldn't even pray. I resolved to fast until this matter, or this feeling, is resolved. The matter = we are getting larger and larger doses of proselyting stuff and less and less of language training. Our education mission seems to be getting shoved aside. My feeling is that the directors here don't understand our needs. They want to push everyone into the same box. I've got problems I need to work out.

[Provo]

We got a letter from David and all the family (the main one was Peggy) and also one from Mom and Gwen. They're all fine. So GOOD TO GET MAIL! Katy's letter was a riot. Willie's really cute. Heather wrote a super letter--such a lovely grown-up girl! Peggy told the news and David sort of told us he loved us. So neat! I know all the kids and grandkids love us, but an expression sure helps a lot. Classes all day today and branch meetings at night. Ater the meetings, the Chapman's and we slipped off to the 31 flavor place. They're a fun pair to be with.

[Provo]

This is new missionary day at the MTC, so those who are already here are kept out of the way as much as possible = that means stay in classes! So, all day classes. That's fine! Lots of work on the language. Rick Frost checked in, and we saw him. Lots of new faces at the evening meal. No mail again. I had an esophygitis problem at the evening meal, but I lived through it. Foolish! I can control it if I just keep my head on. But it really wiped me out!

[Provo]

This day completes our 2nd week. A rainy morning, but cleared in the pm. Almost all of the snow got washed away. A nice, mild afternoon, and nippy evening--great weather!! Classes all day. I finally got hold of the Rx people in Dallas to see where our Rx's are. They went to Huntington Beach. DMBA screwed things up! National Rx is trying to straighten it out. Saw an Elder Lewis today from Coolidge who knows our families. Had a devotional tonight. The GA visitor was Elder Melchin, who is a new 70. Afterward, we talked a bit with Joe and Doris Childers. He's a branch president here. A lingua vai indo. Está melhorando, e creio que serei pronto quando chega a visa. Marian está aprendendo bem, e tambem será pronto, eu acho. (Translation: The language is moving along, I believe that I will be ready when the visa arrives. Marian is learning well, and will also be ready, I think.)

[Provo]

Work at service project this morning. Sister Marshall, our dorm custodian, assigned Marian and me to change the toilet-paper and cup holders for the entire dorm. So, we did that for 45 minutes. I phoned CES to inquire about the boxes being shipped and see about our visas. Mack Bowen was very warm and helpful, but Frank Bradshaw was cool. Elder Chapman was sick today--he is having trouble regulating his diabetes. The classes went well today. We got our first letter--from John and Brandon. So nice to hear from them. Barbara's pregnant = #28!

I wrestled with myself last night and with the Lord and decided to take Alma's admonition in Chapter 7. "Be easily entreated." I'm not going to kick against the pricks, but be easily entreated here and enjoy the experience as much as I can. There are 18 months to serve. We can serve part of them here. I'm sure we can enjoy part of them here.

[Provo]

Bruce's B-Day today. This being Fast Sunday the MTC has Mission Conference. That means that there is an 8:00 Conference of all, then Branch Fast and Testimony Meeting. Saw Joe Childers in between meetings--he's a branch president here. Afternoon was study, snooze and Rusty Nelson and Melodie and their children came to visit us. In the lobby. The evening study class and Fireside rounded out the day.

[Provo]

Went to the Temple with the Chapmans. Itwas a lot better than last week. Reason was, it wasn't new this time. Also, we had company. And I wasn't sleepy. The Chapmans are real funny and cute. We really are comfortable with them. Marian got her hair done while I wrote letters. Then the laundry and off to Salt Lake to get my pants. Marian bought a coat, too. We stopped and saw Ralph and Shirley Ferrin, and were late getting back, so skipped the evening class. That's ok!

[Provo]

This is one your standard days. Cold, snowy, real cold. The classes went as scheduled except for a visit from Elders Taylor and Osborne of the Seventy. there was a full-bore meeting in the gym to hear Elder Taylor's message on Lehi's Dream as adapted to Missionary work. I popped into bed pooped, and am writing this Saturday. Kimball's B-Day.

[Provo]

A full day. Daytime classes and branch meetings at night. We got 2 new couples into the branch—both going to Germany Frankfurt. Marian was back full bore. But Elder Chapman missed the evening meetings because of a sinus infection. The weather turned rainy and cold today, with a very light sprinkle of snow. It has been beautiful the last few days. The change is welcome. Met Elder Byron Thompson from the Cerritos Institute. He came in yesterday. He's going to Japan and was really happy to see a face he knew! Fine young Elder! Rusty Kelson came by at lunch and visited us in the lobby. Just a social visit. Larry's B-Day.

[Provo]

We are no longer greenies!! Today the next batch of missionaries arrived, and we are veterans. Marian is 90% back in action, looks and feels much better. On Wednesdays we have straight classes—the MTC is busy absorbing the new ones. Elder Paterson a.m., Sister Harris p.m., Sister Bezas for all of us night. Marian has Elder Lucero a.m. and Elder Davis p.m. They are all great. Lucero and Davis served missions in Portugal, so seem to adapt better to our needs. Typical day = song (Port), prayer (Port), scriptures (English) then separate to sections. Today I finished the "Tasks" book. Now I'm into the big In-Field book. I notice how far Marian has come in the past week. Her confidence level is way up, her language is coming along well. She now is getting the idea that she can do it! Only one word for her: Magnificent!!