Columbia River Temple
When I grew up nearby in Connell, WA, the nearest Latter-day Saint temple was in Idaho Falls, a 12-hour drive. Now there is a lovely temple in Kennewick, WA, 40 minutes away. Chris and I loved participating in one of our faith tradition's ordinances that we lovingly offer up to people who did not have the opportunity to receive before death. I always appreciate my time in our temples - the loving, peaceful spirt there lifts my spirit and opens my heart to feeling God's love.
This particularl visit was especially meaningful. We loved being inside this beautiful temple in my old stomping grounds. I listed to the temple ritual for the first time in Portuguese - so lovely (I maintain that the Portuguese language is the language of angels)!
We bumped into Kathi and Carl Eppich, dear friends from high school, who happened to be participating in the same session. We had a wonderful conversation afterwards about their experience on their recent mission. More than once Kathi exclaimed "A mission changes you". I'm getting a taste of that.
Spending 24/7 with Chris, with both of us focused on a common mission (no pun intended), has been wonderful. In the past, we have generally "done our own thing", especially since becoming empty nesters. On our mission, we are better appreciating that our differing talents are complimentary; both of us together are much more effective than either of us alone!
Local Drug Store
Elk Drug Store lives up to its name! As you might expect, most people around here are very into the outdoors, including hunting and fishing.
Food Bank
We volunteer weekly at the local food bank. Very impressive operation for such a small town. Anyone who indicates a need can shop for free, loading their grocery cart with the food they want.
This fun lady consented to me taking a photo - love the white cowboy boots!
Local Universities
Whitman College in Walla Walla - gorgeous campus!
Even though I grew up in Eastern Washington, this is the first time I had ever been on WSU campus in Pullman.
University of Idaho in Moscow. My uncle Tom Moss attended law school there. Fun to see it for the first time after hearing about it as a child.
Zone Conference
It was wonderful to be with the young missionaries and to receive instruction from President and Sister Quereto. They are outstanding leaders and teachers - the missionaries love them and they love the missionaries.
The three Elders above include our district leader (next to me) and his two companions. They come to Dayton at least weekly. We love them all!
Visiting Mom in Spokane
We receive permission from Pres Quereto to drive to Spokane to visit mom last week. As age 96 she is still blessing others with her beautiful smile and thoughtfulness. Staff at Palouse County Assisted Living all said the she is their favorite resident. Each time I wheeled her into the cafeteria, at least three residents stopped me to greet mom and share with me how much they appreciate her cheery disposition and kindness.
We were happy that mom was alert and talkative during the two days we were with her. She shared that she misses Dad - especially his kindness and wisdom. I miss him too. We look forward to the future when we will be with him. and all of our loved ones, again.
Gym
We joined a gym located on Main Street. It's big! And as you can see, we NEVER have to wait in line to use the equipment!
Joy
Chris and I spoke in Sacrament Meeting on Sunday. Our topic was the joy of repentance. I focused on the idea that repentance is all about adopting new and better paradigms - Jesus teachings were generally focused on mindset (eg,, love, compassion) more than action, probably because mindset ultimately deeply influences action.
In the Alma chapter 34 of the Book of Mormon, we read: If ye...harden not your hearts and longer [and] repent, immediately will the great plan of redemption be brought about unto you.
The idea is that as soon as we turn to god in humility, He will immediately receive us with open arms; he will soften our heart and change our dispositions. This process of deep humility and turning to God brings peace to our minds, joy to our hearts, and empowers positive change. May it be so for all of you!
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I think going back to Washington is the sweetest way to start your mission. Seeing your darling mom melts my heart. I hope I can be a goid as you someday🥰
I agree with Teresa Coons. What a lovely way to get grounded in your mission. Your mom is beaming and so are you both! I love that you're both still taking care of others (food bank) and yourselves (at the gym)! Thinking of you both.
It sounds like you have a lot of freedom with your time there. I like that you both go to the gym together. What a sweet pic of your mom. I can tell from her eyes that you made her day with your visit! Keep up the good work
What a great way to start your mission-returning back to your roots and blessing the lives of people in an area that brings back so many memories for you. Thank you for starting this blog. We love you and pray for you!❤️
Ah, so great to hear about your connections and seeing your pictures. My father graduated from WSU in Pullman, having grown up in Spokane. Just wanted to let you know what an amazing spark you lit with CCIC and the Danville and San Ramon stakes! We have had two groups make up cleaning kits for us, and the Danville Stake is going to be putting together food boxes! Thank you so much! All my best to you and Chris.
You both look very happy and involved. You are in a very nice area. I very much look forward to hearing about your continuing "adventures".
I didn't know your mother was there, by the way. What a great opportunity to see her!
Spence