We are having a most unusual May here in New York. The locals have told me that this is very unusual weather. It is normally hot and muggy already. Instead we have been experiencing a lot of rainfall and cloudy cool days. Coming from the land of sunshine in Alberta, I enjoy seeing blue skies and lots of sunshine. I imagine that normally, people would have their outdoor pools up and running by now. Erik says that he didn’t bring any long sleeved shirts because the weather should have been delightful by now. Alas, we are still running the furnace and trying to keep warm with wearing slippers in the house.

I finally wore my fancy cowboy boots to church. One, because it was cooler, and they give me some warmth. Two, because I just felt like dressing up a little more. Members at church noticed my boots and told me that they really liked them.

We were privileged to have a Temple Workers devotional on Sunday evening. Elder Mathias and Sister Irene Held spoke to us as well as our temple President and matron, the Kimblers. All the talks were so good and well prepared to touch our hearts. The closing hymn was, “The Spirit of God”. There were probably about 100 people in attendance. When the opening notes started playing, the chapel felt different and when the singing started, I immediately noticed that there were at least 300 to 400 people singing. Heavenly angels were singing with us. The organist was spectacular and she let it fly for the last verse; all the bells and whistles were in operation for that verse. At the close of the meeting, I turned to the ladies around me and said, “Did you hear that song with the angels joining us?” They had noticed it too! It was a very special experience.

Afterwards, there were cookies for a treat. My glucose monitor had been signalling me for the past hour and I wasn’t going to eat a thing with high blood sugar. One of my fellow temple workers started bringing me glasses of water and then we started walking laps in the cultural hall. It didn’t improve much at all, so another sister who is nurse, suggested that I go home and eat some protein. We returned home, I ate some protein and bounced on the rebounder for 15 minutes to see if it helps and thankfully, it did! I was able to go to bed with peace of mind.

One of the things I noticed this week is that public buildings don’t have handicap accessible doors. When I saw someone with a walker trying to get into the temple, I wondered why they weren’t using the handicap button. It turns out, there is no button. I hurried to the door to help the patron. Then, I started looking at other buildings and saw no accessibility. Very interesting to me, considering that we are not allowed to give a cough drop to someone because that is considered medicine and we’re not a doctor. Some laws are mystifying! I don’t know how a wheelchair is supposed to get into a building.

It was mainly rain and cool weather this week. We did have a fun event to look forward to on May 25. Of the temple missionaries, there will be a birthday this week so someone decided that we should have a surprise party for him. I will report next week on how it turned out.

Erik had an appointment with the dentist to put on the permanent crown but after the office called to reschedule the time, the day flew by and he forgot about the appointment. Rescheduled again for Tuesday the 27th. Well, the temporary crown fell off the day before the appointment so, he is looking forward to the real deal.

The buses have started arriving! The buses are here! Palmyra is a destination temple and tour groups book well in advance to secure a spot in our baptistry. We have been told about how to bring a group in and the process of having them in the temple and trying to have everything go smoothly. We were scheduled to work Saturday evening from 6 to 8 pm for a bus load. There were six of us temple missionaries scheduled to work with a member of the presidency and his wife. Erik and I were the coordinators and we were happy with how things went. We debriefed after the session to discuss what we could have done better and any changes that need to be made. Our toes have been dipped and now it’s into the thick of it for the rest of the summer.

Some temple missionaries have families arriving starting in June and so there is a shuffling of workers as we try to help each other out with the schedule. There is a lot to see in New York and it is incredibly beautiful. There are many choices to be made as to places to go and things to experience.

This year is the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal. In 1825, New York State opened the Erie Canal. It was an engineering feat parting forests and hills to link Albany to Buffalo, which is a whopping 363 miles away. This was a significant shift in a young nation’s development. New York transformed from a frontier to a force. The canal shortened shipping times which then catapulted New York City into global prominence and helped new towns across the state spring up almost overnight.

The days of mules and weigh locks may be over, but the canal’s spirit of movement lives on. The Empire State Trail, completed in 2020, follows much of the canal’s historic route, drawing walkers, runners and cyclists from around the world. I got so excited to learn about a song that was written in 1912, titled, “Low Bridge, Everybody Down”. I learned that most children educated in New York State probably learned the song sometime in their youth. I looked it up and it’s quite catchy. In 1954, Pete Seeger recorded the song and it became even more popular.

The funny thing is when I asked the temple presidency about it, our Matron started singing it and I sang along with her. She was raised in New York State! Her husband was raised out west so he doesn’t know it.

The canal runs a block from our home and it’s inspiring to think of the history behind our house here in Palmyra.

One of my fellow temple missionaries is also an artist and I admire her work. The other Utah missionaries went to her home and were able to see all her artwork hanging on the walls of her home. Being present and seeing it in person would be wonderful. Check out her website to see her creations.

Welcome

A post from @saltandhart (IG)

Have you ever paused to think about those who came before you?
The ancestors who prayed, sacrificed, and walked paths you now stand on?

Maybe lately you’ve felt them close.

You’ve noticed moments when strength came you didn’t expect, or peace entered your heart right when you needed it most.
Those feelings might be them.

Your ancestors are not far away. In fact, they might be nearer than you think.

Through the Savior Jesus Christ and sacred temple covenants, families are bound forever.
Death cannot erase love or promises.
Your ancestors are still offering sacrifices in your behalf.
They are cheering you on, standing beside you, and reminding you that you don’t have to carry your burdens alone.

They are a legacy that still speaks into your life.

And as you honor them, the Spirit will bring you added strength, comfort, and peace.

You are part of their eternal story.
And they are still part of yours.
Your ancestors still care deeply about you. And they are still helping you come closer to Jesus Christ.

I can attest to this! I love to think about my ancestors and their lives, their families, the things they prayed for, their dreams and hopes. Always remember that you are never alone, although unseen, they are your biggest cheerleaders.

Have a glorious week, be kind, be courteous, be loving and generous.

This week started off with an early drive to Rochester for choir practice. Today we were going to be singing our Mother’s Day song during Sacrament meeting. Sister Neckles had the music all arranged in plastic folders and placed paper clips on each page to make it easier to turn the pages during the performance. There were nine pages and I really appreciated her efforts for us. We sang our song and Erik remarked that the ladies held up their portion of the choir really well. Considering that there were only 6 of us singing, I hoped that we could do it properly. I have a meso-soprano voice and I am always cognizant of not over powering the other members of the choir. During practice, Sister Neckles told me that I was holding back too much. Oye, oye, oye! It’s a fine line.

Driving home, Erik said that we were going to drive a different way home that would take us along the shore of Lake Ontario. We went south to the 104 and then headed east. Using my sense of direction, I directed him to drive along certain roads and then we ended up on the Great Lakes Seaway Trail. It was beautiful and I saw an interesting phenomenon on the lake within the water. It’s fascinating to see the homes along the waterfront. Some are beautifully developed (mansions) and others are properties that have been held in families for generations and they are the original lakefront homes, overgrown and neglected. It reminded me of Gull Lake and the village which has the same thing going on.

I had the joy and honor of video calls with 4 of my children and their children. Technology makes life so enjoyable with being able to see all their faces and converse with them. I learned a cute story about our 14 year old grandson, who in science class, was told that whoever memorized the periodic table would receive a cake. I don’t think she knew that in our family, we have identic memories that really helps us to learn quickly. Our grandson memorized the table in two days and then presented to his teacher. She got a funny look on her face and at the end, he asked her if he did something wrong. She replied, “No, it was perfect!” She wasn’t expecting to have to buy a cake for anyone but, surprise, surprise, Carter was able to bring a chocolate cake home for his efforts.

Our 2 year old grandson spent his first night away from his mother. Her Mother’s Day gift was a night at a hotel all by herself with her books, and peace and quiet. He wasn’t very happy with his dad and sure didn’t want his mama to not be at home where he expects her. There was a lot of ballyhooing going on late into the night. Our son is a wonderful pickleball player and our grandson watches carefully what his dad does and teaches but he took a long back swing with a paddle and destroyed the television. Neither dad or son was incredibly happy with each other. It had been a rough night! The good news is that his baby sister to come is healthy and doing well in mama’s tummy.

Our Calgary grandchildren decided to go rogue and stripped off their clothing, leave via the front door and ride their bicycles through the neighborhood. My dear daughter was exasperated and embarrassed. I told her that it runs in the family and that they came by it honestly. My dad tells me that when we lived in Germany, I stripped off my clothing and headed outside. My parents found me in a dirt pile in the neighborhood, happily playing and getting dirty. I think I was saving laundry for my mother!

Monday was a day that Erik and Mark planned for us. We were heading to Watkin’s Glen State Park for a hike. We took the Gorge Trail. It was incredibly beautiful (huge understatement)! The park attendant took one look at us and suggested that we go partway and then return along the same trail. Watkins Glen State Park is the most famous of the Finger Lakes State Parks, with a reputation for leaving visitors spellbound. Within two miles, the glen’s stream descends 400 feet past 200-foot cliffs, generating 19 waterfalls along its course. The gorge path winds over and under waterfalls and through the spray of Cavern Cascade. Rim trails overlook the gorge. Campers and day-visitors can enjoy the Olympic-size pool, scheduled summer tours through the gorge, tent and trailer campsites, picnic facilities and excellent fishing in nearby Seneca Lake or Catherine Creek, which is renowned for its annual spring run of rainbow trout. It would be amazing to camp there.

We entered via the south entrance. Wanda & I decided to visit the ladies room before the hike. It’s not a long hike and would probably only take us just over an hour. We decided to take a little bit of toilet paper with us in case of emergencies. Little did we know, that there would be zero chance of having any privacy anywhere to have a break. Both Wanda and I are not fans of height and as we entered the gorge, I thought to myself, “This may be a little or a lot crazy!” The trail is only 1.5 miles long but has an elevation climb of 500 feet with over 800 stone steps. The trail is not very wide but is passable by two people, side by side.

We stopped at the point of no return and talked with some people from Brazil. They were young and I said that they could easily do the last 180 step climb to the end (which I was questioning if I should do it, thinking back on the park attendant). They came back and said that they decided not to do the climb. We rested at this point and this is where we learned that Wanda, Erik and myself are all 62 years old and graduated from school the same year. Mark is the older brother of the group being 6 years older than us. Then we decided that we were going to give it a go. Erik is like a mountain goat and he would have no issues with the 180 step climb. Surprisingly, my 7 day a week workouts made it easier that I thought. When you are dragging around excess weight, you have to work hard to do things. I have built up so much core strength and leg strength that I didn’t struggle like I thought I would. Along the trail are signs with reminders about calling 911 for emergencies. We joked that hopefully we wouldn’t have to use it! It was 27C today and it was really nice to be in the shade in the gorge for our journey.

We made it to the top and then realized that unless we all hiked the gorge back, the car was sitting in the lower parking lot and we were stuck. While we were trying to decide which route to take back to the car, Erik made the decision to go back, get the car and return for us. He ran the south rim trail in 17 minutes!! He stopped to take a photo of the top of the waterfalls because he said that his heart rate was a tad too high and he needed to rest for a bit.

We loaded up and went into Watkin’s Glen for some lunch. This is a fascinating little town. It is the home of the Watkins Glen International. There is an automobile track near the village. It hosted the Formula One United States Grand Prix for twenty years (1961-1980). It has hosted road racing of various classes, including the World Sportscar Championship, NASCAR and IndyCar. The track is currently owned by NASCAR. In the sidewalk, along main street are plaques commemorating various race car drivers and their wins. A person never knows what they will come across in their travels.

Lunch was spent at a lakeside hotel/restaurant with a pier in front. I had a glorious salad with delicious veggies and roasted apples. Seneca Lake is one of the Finger Lakes where this village is located. It’s very picturesque and quaint. I found a lovely shop and was able to buy a small Nativity set with woodland animals. We picked up information about a sailboat tour and will probably make plans to come back for that. It’s called the True Love.

After our trip, we finished up our usual Monday chores (laundry and cleaning). We slept really well Monday night, hahaha!

While walking about the neighborhood, I met new people who had a sign on their lawn that I got a big kick out of (D.O.P.E.), The Department of Palmyra Efficiency. Of course, I had to stop and talk to them. I learned that Linda had run for the position of Mayor and that Rick was a hunter and fisherman like Erik. We discussed the affairs of the town and the area. We told them where we were living and that we are in Palmyra for a year.

The blooms of the week are outstanding! Japanese Wisteria, Japanese Snowball Bush, Hydrangea, and Iris’. A new bird that we heard was the Chimney Swift.

Chimney Swift

We were blessed to have a great week serving in the temple. Tender mercies abounded and I feel so blessed to be here with kind hearted and loving workers and patrons who come to the temple. God does know us and knows where we need to be and when.

On Saturday, we headed to another grocery store that the Whiteheads gave us a heads up about. It’s called TOPS and we were delighted to find it. We receive weekly flyers about specials and sales and it was great to be able to go and see what they had. We had gone to a Trader Joe’s on Friday and I was underwhelmed. Too much packaged products; too much that I don’t need in my life.

We look forward to the Temple Workers devotional on Sunday. Each time it is a joyful and rich experience. We will have the opportunity to hear a General Authority speak to us.

Considering that we are near the home of Kodak, I wanted to share this quote with you:

Life is like a camera, focus on what is important, capture the good times, develop from the negatives, and if things don’t work out, take another shot.

Have an amazing week, don’t sweat the small stuff, enjoy the rays of sunshine and let joy enter your heart. Let your spirit be guided by good and you will be richly rewarded.

Off to Rochester we go! Early Sunday morning, I had a choir practice to attend. Erik decided to go to Rochester 2nd Ward for sacrament meeting while I was in choir practice. The dear man wanted a meeting in English. In choir, we are singing a Janice Kapp Perry number about mothers (My Mother’s Love). There is no Spanish translation so it’s a bit tricky. I was getting confused because we weren’t singing the correct notes at times and I was feeling lost and wondering what on earth was going on. It was a strange morning; I left the house without my name tag (no companion check), and Erik forgot to bring my sacrament bread.

One of the sister missionaries had some stains on her top down her left side and when her companion mentioned it, I said, “You obviously didn’t do your companion check before leaving the house!” My friend, Anne Dale always said to me that we needed to do a look over each other before going into public. She told me that if I look bad, it makes her look bad. If I look good then she looks good. Anne has given me some very sage advice at times. For instance, my eyebrows are thin and very blond so that it looks like I don’t have eyebrows. Anne told me that if I don’t look like I have eyebrows, then I don’t have a face. It’s true, that we look better if we have a border, so to speak, above our eyes. Thus, every morning, I make sure to put some eyebrow tint on my eyebrows to give me a face, hahaha! So, Erik didn’t do his companion check before we left the house.

We attended Spanish Sunday School together and it was a fun lesson taught by the Branch President. We all had to introduce ourselves and tell our names, where we were from and something that we like to do. I said my name and that I was from Canada. I told the class that I love to cook Mexican food. Erik introduced himself and said that he likes to eat the food that I cook. Then we were divided into 3 groups to decide what we needed for a trip to the moon. Afterwards, we discussed all the things that were needed and it was interesting that each of the three groups had some different items. A sister from Venezuela, who is very intelligent, gave a detailed answer to what one of the items was, that their group was bringing to the moon. The discussion led to Doctrine and Covenants sections 41-44, also discussing things that are needed in the members of the church, the laws that govern us and our responsibilities.

Then we moved on to Fast & Testimony meeting. Erik & I were asked to give the opening and closing prayers. I felt impressed to write some ideas down for testimony meeting. When you have a small branch, there is ample opportunity to share your testimony. Erik prayed in English and I prayed in Spanish. I was able to share my testimony:

Quisiera compartir mi testimonio de amor por nuestro Padre Celestial y su hijo Jesucristo. Se que Dios vive y que si hijo vivio y murio por nosotros. Se que mis bendiciones provienen de un Padre Celestial amoroso. Agradezco todo lo que el Padre me da, tanto en los momentos dificiles como en los buenos, para que pueda aprender y progresar y ser mas como Cristo. Agradezco a mi familia y amigos, y se que todos podemos ayudarnos mutaamente a ser mas como Cristo. En el nombre de Jesucristo, amen.

The more I try to speak, the easier it becomes. Reading the scriptures in both English and Spanish is very enjoyable for me because I am learning even more vocabulary.

There is a person with a good sense of humor who is in charge of the electronic signs along the highway in Rochester. Because it was May 4th (may the force be with you), a few of the signs read:

Han says, “Solo down!”

Light speed can wait, buckle up young Skywalker.

Slow down you may, Arrive safe you will.

Monday is laundry day. Our washing machine sounds and feels like it’s shaking the entire house. Our landlord bought some anti-vibration pads to put under the machine. Erik helped him get them situated and hopefully they will help.

I got rebounding and Erik went rucksacking. He was thinking that maybe he’ll order a heavier pack but came home huffing and puffing and I said that the 20 pound version is plenty of weight for him unless he shed 20 pounds of body weight and then he could add more weight. He agreed, thank goodness!

This year will be 43 years married and Erik noticed that we each have picked up traits from the other over time. Erik was the most shy person that I had ever met and it was painful trying to have a conversation with him when we were dating. Over the years I have watched him bloom and now he goes on his own to start up conversations with people and meets many new individuals. I have become more of a home body and don’t mind spending hours on my own, creating art, cooking, cleaning and sewing.

This was a great week at the temple. We were very busy as usual and had the opportunity to connect with many new people. Plus, we are able to train others and help them feel more comfortable in their assignments. We are starting to gear up for the summer season where the baptistry will be incredibly busy with patrons. Busloads of people will be arriving to come to the temple. Having the stamina to keep up is important. I tell people that rebounding has given me abs of steel and this week, I really noticed my obliques are tight and strong.

I had a really unusual experience this week. It all started when my biological father contacted me when I was 16 years old and I learned that I have a half brother and half sister who at that time where living in B.C. I never really thought seriously about the whole situation but a few years ago and decided to do a couple of DNA tests to see if anything pops up, family wise. If anything, I had more mysteries arise.

This week, I felt like I should check my lists as I received an email saying new relatives have shown up. If you have done any geneology, you understand that it’s like a rabbit hole. One discovery leads to another and you keep checking information. I felt impressed to look at my DNA matches with the highest percentage of match. I messaged one of the matches and received an answer. She is one of my cousins! It seems that the family had no idea that Ross (my biological father) had any children, let alone three. He left home young and no one heard much from him. Then that night I received another message from a lady, stating that we were cousins and our grandmothers are sisters. I was able to give them what information I knew and they shared what they knew. The family believes that he was killed in conflict in a foreign country. I know that he married a woman from Nigeria and he told me that he was moving there with her. In this day and age of information available, it is amazing that no one can find a trace of him. When his mother died, a private investigator was hired to look for him.

An exciting piece of news is that my great-grandparents came from Belarus and farmed in Saskatchewan. Now I know why part of my DNA is from Eastern Europe. Plus it’s probably why I find it easy to learn Russian. I had a hard time going to sleep that night because of all the excitement.

Every week here in New York state, another type of tree is in bloom. I did learn about some of the trees. This week, I identified: Norway Maple in both green and red leaves, Japanese Maple, Japanese Cherry, and Evergreen Azalea. It’s really interesting to see so many colors at the start of the season. Imagine what the fall will bring!

The birds this week were: Yellow-rumped Warbler, Chipping Sparrow, American Robin, and Northern Cardinal.

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Chipping Sparrow

About an hour away from us is Cornell University and the app, Merlin was developed at Cornell Lab. We have plans to go to the Corning Museum, where if you make an appointment, you are able to create a piece of art from glass. There is a lot to see in New York state besides the glorious countryside. Some days this week were chilly and I even put my fuzzy jacket on to go out. By this weekend, we will have weather in the higher 20’s. Someone told Erik that Mother’s Day seems to be a turning point for weather here. After Sunday, warmer temperatures should be gracing us.

We hosted a dinner for our friends, Mark and Wanda (who are from North Carolina). We had enchiladas and Mexican chopped salad. For dessert, I made a chocolate Tres Leche cake.

Ingredients for the dressing:

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• freshly ground black pepper
• taste and add salt if needed

Ingredients for the tortilla strips:

• 6 6- inch corn tortillas
• 1 ½ tablespoons canola oil
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Ingredients for the salad:

• 1 medium head romaine lettuce, chopped in approximately ½ inch pieces
• 1 medium bell pepper, diced in ¼-inch pieces, any color (I used orange)
• ½ medium red onion, diced in ¼-inch pieces
• ½ medium jicama, peeled and diced in ¼-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, diced in ¼-inch dice
• 4 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced into ¼-inch dice
• 4 ears corn, if fresh corn is not in season, substitute 1½ cups of sweet, tiny frozen corn
• 1 ½ cups canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup finely chopped cilantro, plus whole cilantro leaves for garnish, if desired
• instructions

Instructions 

• For the dressing, combine lime juice, honey, cumin garlic and salt.
• In a slow, steady stream, add the oils, stirring continuously with a fork or small whisk.
• Taste and add more salt and pepper, if needed. Set aside.
• For the corn tortilla strips, preheat oven to 400˚F.
• Stack corn tortillas on a cutting board. Cut in half. Cut each stack of halves into thin strips, widthwise, about ¼-inch thick.
• Transfer tortilla strips to a sheet pan. Drizzle with oil. Sprinkle with salt and toss to coat.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, or until light golden brown and crisp. Set aside to cool.
• For the salad, place corn, two ears at a time, in the microwave and cook for 3 ½ minutes.
• Remove from microwave with a hot pad and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
• After cooling, cut bottom end of corn off, about 1 ½ inches from end. Pull back husk and silks (almost all of the silk should easily pull away). Cut kernels from husks and set aside.
• Combine corn and other salad ingredients in a large bowl. Stir to combine. Add dressing and stir to coat all ingredients. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
• Serve with tortilla strips on top or place a bowl on the side and let guests help themselves.

Side note: I’m not a fan of Jicama in Canada or USA, so I substituted radishes. Mexicans eat a lot of radishes in Oaxaca. The salad was sooo very good and we had left overs to eat for lunches. I was able to find corn chip strips at a grocery store, so I didn’t have to make them. I will be making this salad again and again.

Erik found a little Mexican grocery store in a small town 6 miles north of Palmyra. It’s called Ranchis Fiesta and it felt like I was walking into a little tienda in Mexico. I was super exited to find Jamaica leaves to make Agua Fresca de Jamaica. I was able to buy the ingredients to make salsa verde. They have a food truck outside and the young man running it, who didn’t speak english but no problem. I found out that he was from Mexico and I told him that I was too, hahaha!

Some really good news is that I was able to connect with a clinic in Canadaigua and get an appointment with a nurse practioner who can write prescriptions. I was able to get sensors to moniter my blood sugar. Freewheeling is not for the faint of heart!

Canadaigua is on one of the finger lakes and is so beautiful! Erik discovered a steam paddle boat that does tours of the lake. We’ll definitely be doing that excursion.

We packed so much into this week that it feels more like 2 weeks worth of news but I am one day late in posting because of Mother’s Day.

Here is a quote to remind yourself that courage is what counts. Each day, I pray for my family to have courage to do the hard things and choose the better way. Life can be hard and full of things that challenge us in the most unimaginable ways. We are children of the most High God and because of that, we are capable of so much with His help and guidance. Face forward and let the shadows fall behind you; have a fantastic week!

Sunday, April 27, dawned early for Erik. He got up and started cooking potatoes for Compartir. Erik had a big pot on the stove and the instant pot going as well. Ten pounds of potatoes; I think he thought that I was crazy (nothing new). I told him that the Relief Society (Sociadad de Soccoro) president showed me what size of dish to bring. In our apartment there are disposible aluminum pans for taking to events. We decided which one to use and Erik finished up the potatoes while I got ready for church. Our Branch President was expecting us for 10:30 am to meet for a few moments. According to Erik we needed to leave at 9:45 am. Nearly made it on time, hahaha. President Hall convinced us to join the little choir to learn a song. So, 10 minutes chatting with him and then 10 minutes singing. Basically it seems to be a missionary choir.

President Hall asked us to speak the last week of May. I’m not sure how this is going to work because one of us doesn’t speak Spanish. The Lord could provide a miracle! Our topic will be the blessings of the temple.

Compartir was fun to see. Relief Society sisters served the meal while members moved through the line. I brought a nut bar to eat. We were able to meet some more members. The Relief Society president told me that the potatoes were good and I told her that, thanks to Erik, the potatoes were delicious and prepared for today. She was surprised! After our VERY busy Saturday at the temple, my dear husband pulled through to help me out.

I made a couple of pizzas for supper. I got the dough recipe from The Loopy Whisk. They turned out really well. We have plenty of leftovers for coming days. After kneading by hand for 10 minutes, I decided that I was going to look for a stand mixer (which the recipe recommends).

Monday dawned with anticipation in the air. Unfortunately, we did not receive our mail in ballots for the federal election in Canada until today, the day of the election. It was very disappointing. We had a list of things to do (Preparation Day). Of course, laundry leads my list and I had the bedding in the washer before 7 am. Erik was working on our shopping list. We needed to go to Costco and pick up specific items.

Driving to east Rochester to the Costco, We see 5 police cruisers on the side of highway 31 with officers in their flak jackets, conferring about the upcoming takedown. I also spotted two Chinook helicopters flying above us. These are military aircraft which can carry up to 10 tons of cargo. They are massive and fast.

We arrived at Costco by 10:30 am. As we cruise the aisles, Erik says, “We already have so many dollars in the cart and don’t have anything off our list yet!” Focus, more focus! One of the things we were looking for was lawn chairs to pack in the car to go picnicking and visiting places. Nothing appealed to us, so we will look elsewhere. We finished the store and headed to the car to load up.

Getting home, we unloaded and started sorting items and where to put things. Unbelievably, we realized that we needed to head to a grocery store for a few items, but first, Erik had a dental appointment in Phelps. I wanted to go along because that meant I would get to see new places. Phelps is another delightful little town. When we entered the office, I asked if there were any fabric stores in town. There weren’t any to be had, so I settled into the waiting room to read old magazines. I picked up “Mary Jane’s Farm” magazine. It was right up my alley, filled with homemaking items, focusing on more natural and organic processes. I was surprised to see an article about one of my vendors from my quilt shop days. Julie left the corporate world and started her own quilt pattern company called, “Patch Abilities”. Then I looked at the age of the magazine and it was 9 years old!!! Julie’s company is still going strong with really cute ideas and patterns today. Despite the magazines being really old, they were in good condition and helped to pass the time. Unfortunately, Erik is going to need a crown and a little cavity filled.

We stopped in Newark quickly to pick up a few produce items. The two of us do not need a ten pound bag of apples from Costco so we opted to shop for these items locally in a grocery store. Then we raced home to meet a repair man. Our bedroom ceiling fan does not operate independantly from the pot lights. The repair man was someone that we knew! He wired the fan separate from the pot lights so that it runs from the pull chains now; delightful.

Tuesday morning brought the news about the Canadian federal election. It wasn’t the outcome that I was hoping for but I know that it’s not over until it’s over. I tend to the conservative/libertarian mindset. Being raised in the military and my pioneering ancestors, I was taught to work things out for myself if I can and not expect the collective to bail me out. It’s probably why I am extremely independant and think out of the box about how to fix situations; it’s not over until it’s over. My husband has a very calm mindset and in each situation his thoughts are, “Nothing is ever as good as it seems and nothing is ever as bad as it seems.” I don’t agree with him but we are two different people who are eternal companions. If we can forge a life together in peace and love, we have a hope that all will be well in the end.

As we went to the temple for our shift, I knew that being in the Lord’s house would bring peace to my heart and solace to my mind. The focus of being there is about service and love. That focus helps block out all the world’s noisy raucus that clamours in our heads on a day to day basis.

I absolutely love the new temple missionaries who have arrived. Working with them is so much fun as I get to know them. Sister Stevens and I both have a love of Mexican food, as she was raised in California. I see a great collaboration happening! My tortilla press has arrived and now the fun can begin.

It was an incredible 27C today in Palmyra. The sun was shining and it felt so good to have the warmth. We are still on a roller coaster of temperatures so I better enjoy it while it’s here.

My neighbor lent me her seasoning for pizza sauce. It’s from Utah and a company called Shirley J. makes it. The great thing is that it is gluten free. I went to the website and ordered a couple of their seasonings that are gluten free. It’s flavour was really good and on days (who am I kidding) that I don’t have a lot of time to make pizza sauce from scratch with the San Marzano tomatoes, I’ll definitely use the seasoning, simply added to a can of tomato sauce.

On Wednesday morning, Erik went for his walk and I got on my rebounder. When he returned, he came upstairs to report his walk about. He was grinning so hard, so I took my earbud out to see what was going on. It turns out that he was so anxious to get going that he forgot to wear his rucksack equipment and to top it all off, he grabbed the wrong nametag to clip to his jacket. Instead of “Elder Naglis”, he was wearing, “Sister Naglis”. He said that he even stopped and talked to two guys on his walk. Maybe they would be wondering, “What kind of church is THAT?” That’s our big giggle of the day.

https://theloopywhisk.com/2024/08/24/easy-gluten-free-sandwich-bread/#wprm-recipe-container-19321

I made bread early this afternoon. Now that I have a stand mixer to knead the psyllium mixture into the flour mixture without leaving lumps. Everything went really well and I have decided that this was the best recipe yet, for gluten free bread. I took a slice to the temple with my French butter on it. Ooo la la! Tres bon!

Thursday weather was going to hit 19C today. We prepared for the late shift at the temple. Erik went walking with his rucksacking equipment and I bounced. When doing the late shift, meals are wonkadoodle. We keep food in the fridge for quick grab-and-go’s.

My experience with the health insurance is driving me loco. We are supposed to go to the Aetna website and lookup a practioner who is listed. They sort them by nearness to me. Everyone that I called was either not there anymore or not taking new patients. I might as well have shot myself in the foot as trying to get anywhere. It’s so frustrating when the website is so out of date. I’m starting to think out of the box. Here’s my dilemma; I use a continuous glucose moniter to check my blood sugar. I can buy them in Canada with no issues. In the USA, a person needs a prescription to buy them. Well, how on earth are these a controlled product? What nefarious reason would they need to be by prescription only? My guess, is that it is all about the mighty dollar. Shall I freewheel it (no CGM)? Shall I pay out of pocket to see a physician? In my mind the missionary health insurance is a scam. I asked one of the Historic Site missionaries on how to deal with the health issurance and she shuddered and said, “It’s a problem!” I am still pondering.

Oh, Friday…back to Rochester for a Costco return and a pickup of a few items. Friday being our day off, it gives us a chance to catch up on any laundry that needs doing before Monday and to prepare for our Saturday shift. We are still sorting kitchen implements and tossing the broken and rusted items in the trash.

We went to the temple president’s house to help him set up tables and chairs for a dinner/meeting they are hosting Sunday evening. That didn’t take long and we were back home.

I wanted to make Sopes today, so I dug out our griddle and made the dough. Erik heated up the black beans. The griddle was hotter than I realized and I ended up burning my thumbs and forefingers, flipping the sopes and pinching the edges. Erik asked me if I wanted a spatula and I told him that Mexican women use their bare hands to flip them. Well, I paid the price on that one and again will turn to my ministering angels to help me out. I’m sure they shake their heads and go, “Oh, Cheryl!!!” Anyway, we enjoyed eating them and of course, we have sopes to put in the freezer for future use.

Saturday, we work the early shift and I managed to get myself there looking presentable. Leaving the house early is a trial for me in some ways because I don’t feel like I’m really awake and functioning. I saw my schedule for the day and it seemed like I had some free blocks of time. I like to be busy but I was reminded that the Lord knows where and how He needs me. I had two very special experiences today that were a clear reminder that I am on the Lord’s errand. I had the opportunity to visit with a woman who had travelled with her group for four hours to come to Palmyra. I invited her to sit and visit with me while she waited. We connected so well and she was one who said to me, “God gave you to me today when I really needed you. You were meant to be here today for me.” When I was moving on to another assignment, I hugged her and told her that I loved her and she replied the same to me. What a wonderful experience to have met and helped her.

One of the bonuses of being at the temple all week is that I have learned processes where I can help train others. The reason that I know a lot about the laundry system, is because I am always asking questions and then filing that information away for future use. It’s nice to be needed and feel useful.

I love that other temple workers are welcoming us and being friendly. Sometimes I think it is hard for them. Maybe feeling like we are invading their space, but we are simply there to help and support.

We go home and have a midday type of meal, and put our feet up for a bit. Then I get on my rebounder to finish getting my exercise done for the day. Erik decided to bake some black bean brownies. He shared some with our neighbors and Tonya said that she would feed it to Rick and later tell him that they were made with black beans, hahaha!

That was our week; I’m sure there are many things that I have forgotten to write about. Others are sacred and I need to keep them in my heart but I know that we are all known to our father in heaven. He knows what we need and when we need it. Sometimes, we get impatient and think we know best but truly, “Father knows best”. We get those reminders if we pay attention. It’s takes some humility and grace to acknowledge that we are not in charge and when we try to take control, it usually doesn’t go as well as hoped. Every so often I get a reminder from God, to let go and let Him do his job. Stay well and until next week, hasta luego.

The blossoms are starting. I have been waiting three weeks to see the glorious riot of color explode. As Erik drives the highways and biways, I look at everything, noting the scenery and signage all around. We still plugged in the address for the Spanish Branch (Rochester 5th Branch) into the GPS. There were many more people attending this Sunday. We met new members and a new missionary. The Branch President asked to talk to us next Sunday…doo, doo, doo. I saw a lady walking around after Sacrament meeting with a clip board and she seemed to be getting people to sign up for something. It turns out that there is a Linger Longer luncheon next week and the Relief Society President had a list with specific items to bring for the meal. I signed up for “Pure de Papas”. I asked her how much to bring and she gestured the size of a pan to bring for the mashed potatoes. I asked the sisters if I could add some flavor to the potatoes and they said yes. So, next Friday, I will have to prepare them because we will be working at the temple from 7:30 am to 10 pm on the Saturday. The meal is called Compartir in Spanish which means to share. I wore my new peacock dress to church because it is very spring colored and light. The Easter program had the Branch Presidency speaking and there was a musical number with the two sets of missionaries and a couple members of the branch. It was beautiful!

Our walk took us to the old cemetary of Palmyra. It is on the same block where we live. There is a set of concrete stairs going up the hill. We were looking for Alvin Smith’s grave site. There were other gravestones scattered throughout the hilltop. Alvins’ is well cared for as is Jonathan Swift, the founder of Palmyra in 1790. It was orginally known as Swift’s Landing and changed to Palmyra in 1796.

We found a stolen plastic Easter egg, chewed open by the scavenging squirrel, then another one. The chocolate wrappers were all that was left. Again, squirrels running amok, high on chocolate. Is this becoming a theme in my life? We carried on to Palmyra Road and ended up going south to the Wayne County Fair grounds. It will be August 4-10, this year. There are a lot of events, including a demolition derby. I predict a lot of noise and people for that week.

We saw families that gathered for Easter dinner. The cars pulling out of driveways, hugs and kisses blown as they went their separate ways. It was windy and cold at first, thus, we bundled up. I usually take 45 minutes to walk 3 kilometers but these walks take me an hour because I need to stop and look at the flora and birds. Erik thankfully walks to my pace. There is a delightful creek running through Palmyra and I love to stop and watch it.

By the evening we noticed that the furnace had not come on in a long time and that the house seemed to be getting colder. I started putting extra layers on and then added a fleece blanket to my attire. As we were going to bed, Erik had taken a photo of me, dressed to the nines, and sent it to Rick and Tonya, who control the heat for the house. He suggested that maybe tomorrow, they could turn up the furnace a little more, haha!

Monday dawned with a little sunshine but it didn’t last long. I read my scriptures first. I am in Helaman and also in Ephesians. I love Ephesians because the theme seems to be telling us that we all need to get along with each other and to have the Saviour as our example; to live in love and unity with one another.

Despite the gloomy looking day, I got on my rebounder and noticed that the furnace was coming on. It seems that Rick and Tonya were having a hard time staying warm so they were running space heaters and that was why the furnace wasn’t cycling on. We will figure out this house! By that time, the heat will probably have picked up outside.

Mondays are laundry days; bed gets stripped and into the machine. Whites and colors too are going into the cycle. Plus, Erik has been needing a haircut so that was definitely happening today too. When I can see that his eyebrows are turning into spiders trying to race across his face, it’s past the time for a haircut. He set himself up in the kitchen and I clipped him up so that he’s neat and tidy again.

We decided to have a bit of an Easter dinner today. I wanted to try making some Payday candies and some Strawberry Pretzel salad. When we were at Gull Lake, I liked to make 9 X 9 pans of the Strawberry Pretzel salad for the neighbors for Canada Day because it’s red and white. The strawberries at the grocery store have been really good lately so Erik suggested that I make some Strawberry Pretzel salad for Easter. It’s always an adventure learning a new kitchen and where all the tools are.

https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/strawberry-pretzel-dessert/#RecipeCard

I think this week may bring a little warmer tepmeratures. I didn’t even wear a jacket to the temple today. We are on the morning shift and after a couple of weeks, we are feeling more settled in our duties at the temple. Again, meeting new people and new patrons. After our shift, we headed home for a late lunch.

I discovered that my swelling ankles and legs may be due to not being able to get my legs off the ground in the evenings. For years, we have had reclining sofas and loveseats. Being horizontally challenged means that I’m too short for most chairs and sofas. The circulation gets cut off and my legs start to ache. Isn’t it funny how blood is supposed to flow throughout our entire bodies and not just random places? I had a couple of choices; getting a zero-gravity lawn chair or a recliner chair. Erik says that we are here for a year and he thinks that we should try and be comfortable. We drove to Victor to a furniture store and chose a couple of recliners. They will be available for pickup on Wednesday. Simple recliners; no power, but very comfortable. I had to work hard not to cry in the showroom sitting on that chair because the relief was so palatable.

I finally got to go to a L.L. Bean store! It’s been on my list of things to see in the USA. Strange, I know, but I really like their products. I was able to find a pair of walking shoes that were so comfortable. I get excited when a pair of shoes fits so well. I started dancing and the joy I felt in shoes that will do me well was wonderful. The salesman told me to just keep on dancing.

We were on a mid shift for Wednesday. After completing our shift, we went home to change and head into Henrietta to pick up the recliners. Upon arriving, Erik rang the bell for the loading dock and a young man came to pick our order. As I was waiting, I noticed these beautiful little daisies in the lawn and I had to take a photo. I saw two boxes coming to the loading dock and I thought that they both would fit in the SUV without removing them from the boxes. Erik was dubious but both the young man and I thought it would work. He measured a box and asked Erik to measure the vehicle. After conferring, they loaded one box and hurrah! There was room for the second box. We have that great feature with the rear view mirror, that with a switch we can use the camera if the car is full of cargo and we can’t see behind us. Home again, jiggity, jig!

Rick and Tonya came to help us with the unloading and set up of the recliners. Tonya had on an apron and I was admiring it. She offered to lend me an apron until I sewed mine. Within a short amount of time, both chairs were set up and all the refuse dealt with. Then the highjinks began. I sat in my chair and I could not get it to recline. Erik sat in it and he was able to do it. I thought that maybe the chair just needed a breaking in period. He is a foot taller than me and I believe that he had better leverage to move the chair into a reclining position. After supper, Erik decided to read the instructions for the chairs (hahaha). It turns out that there is an adjustment that can be made from underneath to loosen the tension on the springs. Tada! I was finally able to recline the chair without giving myself a hernia.

Thursday brought an early shift for us. After coming home, Erik decided to reorganize the living room built-in cabinet. It’s a little scary to me, but the upper shelves aren’t as scary as the bottom area (cob webs etal!) He pulled everything out and wiped it all down. Then started sorting and getting rid of things that were useless. Meanwhile, I prepared my work surface to cut out my apron pieces. He brought the ironing board and iron downstairs for me to use and I got going. By 8 pm, I had a double sided apron with fabric that I purchased in Pella, Iowa and also here in Palmyra. Erik helped me turn the tubes for the neck straps and the waist ties. His comment was, “Don’t you have a tool for this!?!” Why, yes, I do, sir…at home with all my other fun toys.

Occasionally, I get a call from my friend, Dawn Marie and we chat for a couple of minutes. She asked me if I missed Alberta. I thought about it and realized that, no, I am doing fine here because we are so busy each day.

We received a really special gift from our friends, Lisa and Clint Thompson. After reading about our light dilemma in the bedroom leaking through the edge of the blinds, they sent us each a gel eye mask for sleeping. They are incredibly comfortable! They even came with a pair of ear plugs. They would be perfect for shift workers.

Friday morning saw us up and at the Bishop’s Storehouse. Today we weighed and packaged bananas, oranges and green peppers. The peppers were huge and most bags only had one pepper in them. I was having gut issues from being glutenized again. This was from breathing in gluten dust in the breakroom. As much as I love cleaning, I don’t think cleaning in there is such a good idea. It was going to be interesting working our shift tonight.

I think I was a little nervous about working 4 shifts in a row; late Friday and 3 on Saturday. We were getting ourselves ready to go and I decided to pack a cotton dress that is very comfortable to wear. I had a delightful couple of moments between Friday and Saturday that reminds me that we are exactly where the Lord needs us to be. I met the dad of our friend Dan, who serves in our bishopric. I gave him a hug and was feeling great being able to meet both of his parents. As we age, sometimes it feels like the world gets smaller and smaller.

Saturday dawned with drizzle and a little cooler weather. Well, with 96% humidity, it feels cold when it rains. We started the early shift and then that merged into the afternoon shift. While I was acting as a greeter at the doors of the temple, I was so overwhelmed to see our friend, Nate Cattran, who served his mission in the Calgary Canada Mission. He served in the Bow Valley Ward for a time and spent time with us as we fed the missionaries. Nate and I hugged and it was like seeing a son that you hadn’t seen in a long time. I tried not to cry but was so overjoyed at seeing him again, that tears were leaking out of my eyes.

We were able to go home for a couple of hours. I did my Spanish lesson and Erik cooked a meal for us. We have a Ninja indoor grill and barbeque and he was able to get supper ready in no time. Then it was time to head back to the temple for our last shift of the day. At the Palmyra temple, they have the opportunity to welcome bus loads of people coming to see the temple. I don’t mean to trivialize the temple and area but it is like a tourist destination because of the historic significance. Many people want to come and experience the area and the historic sites. While it is a small square footage temple, we have a huge amount of people who come and feel the love in the house of the Lord.

Today was also significant because the 6 month temple missionaries arrived. It was so delightful to meet the other four couples and work with them for the evening session. One couple is from North Carolina and the other three couples are from Utah. The Parkers are serving their fourth mission! It was a great evening serving the busload of women and getting to know our fellow missionaries. We were home by 10:30 pm and I just needed to bounce on my rebounder for five minutes to loosen everything up and get ready for bed.

Erik’s plan was to get up early and cook the potatoes for the “Compartir” at church. What a wonderful man I am married to!

Being two hours ahead of Mountain Daylight Time, we had all morning to prepare for General Conference. After the stunning Saturday sessions, my heart wanted even more. It’s a funny thing, wishing for conference sessions to go on and on but then realizing that we still have everyday chores to be done. Every spring and fall we have the opportunity to watch General Conference. As a child, we would go to the chapel to see conference being broadcast by satelite. Now, we can access the sessions via, computer, phone, satelites, and smart speakers. So, many ways to feel uplifted and given strength to carry on trying to follow the Saviour’s example.

I did have a prayer answered about what I need to be doing better while on my mission; well, to be honest, my life in general. The kick-off of Elder Holland’s talk touched my heart. Thus, after a very stirring Saturday, I welcomed more joy on Sunday. I started the morning reading in Romans and Alma. It’s always amazing to me reading about Paul and his journeys. Plus reading about Alma the younger and his experience which parallels Paul’s experience. These are some of the greatest examples of repentance and coming into the arms of Christ.

After the first Sunday session, we decided to go for our Sunday walk. We headed towards the steel bridge to nowhere, as I call it. Walking past wooded ponds, we were able to see and hear many birds. I love the Merlin app on my phone to record and identify birds. The following list is what we found:

Northern Cardinal, Red-Winged Blackbird, Tufted Titmouse, Black-capped Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Canada Goose, American Robin, Carolina Wren, and American Goldfinch.

The more I listen, the more I am able to identify by their song. It’s beautiful to be in nature and see the creatures. As we aproached Lock 29 on the Erie Canal, we spotted a father and son fishing along the canal. The boy was probably five years old and watching him bait his own hook was amazing. Nearly every cast, that young lad caught a fish. He recognized which ones were too small and had to be thrown back. The father explained that he had an older friend who would eat these fish. There were sunfish and crappies. He didn’t want to eat anything from the canal himself.

We headed home to watch the last session of conference. We were gone 90 minutes and I was worried that we were going to be late for the session. It was wonderful to hear more inspiring talks and to end conference with the announcement of more temples to be constructed.

Monday came with some sunshine (surprise, surprise). We started the laundry in the morning after scriptures and prayer. Being a temple worker 4 days a week, means that you have a lot of white laundry. We wear white clothing in the temple, so that means lots of white shirts and socks. I love adding Borax to my white laundry to keep it bright. Last week, Erik opened the box of Borax and then proceeded to read the instructions. As he tipped the box to read, I happened to look over at him and watched a fountain of Borax streaming from the open box. Fresh Borax is so fine and spills out very quickly!

We needed to go to Costco (the $400 store) and return some trousers and pick up some more food. Erik managed this trip much better. He did the return while I started picking up food. While loading the cart contents onto the checkout belt, I see a gentleman behind Erik, smiling at him. When I was paying the bill, the same gentleman came up to me and asked where we are serving. I replied, “At the temple.” He told me that he will see me there tomorrow. Our name tags have been a lot of fun, opening conversations and seeing how people willingly talk to us. In the parking lot, I saw a lady loading her groceries in her vehicle. I spotted cream butterhorns and croissants. I said to her, “Oh, I used to make these every Christmas Eve for my family. But now, with celiacs, they are a no-go item.” I asked her to eat one and think of me while she enjoys it. She smiled and said that she would. She then asked me where I was from. I told her that we are from western Canada. Her grandparents were from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia and her family would travel there every summer for a month to visit her grandparents. I asked if her mom still cooks Nova Scotia food, and she replied that she did. Of course, I had to ask her about Blueberry Grunt. She had never had it but was going to ask her mom about it. Give it a try!

Blueberry Grunt – Nova Scotia Style

I received a message from another missionary, that there was going to be a movie night at the Joseph Smith Farm Welcome Center. They were going to be playing the movie, “6 Days in August”. It was released last summer and the room was filled with senior missionary couples (Historic Site and Temple) as well as a lot of young sister missionaries. The film depicts the death of Joseph Smith and the succession crisis of 1844. Based on much historical documents, it was heart wrenching to see the depiction play out and the events that lead to this miraculous event in August 1844.

There was popcorn, drinks and candy for everyone to enjoy. We all settled in and there was a lot of laughter and tears during the movie. It was great to get to know more missionaries.

Monday night was not restful for either of us. I really love my 8 hours of sleep, so I prepare for bed accordingly, but at 2 am, pain started in my guts. Usually, that means I have been “glutenized,” but I hadn’t eaten anything out of the ordinary. This lasted until nearly 8 am. We were on the early shift at the temple, meaning we had our preparatory meeting at 8 am. It was snowing heavily and was -5C with a 36 kph wind. Brutally cold enough to put on my mukluks (granted, they are my short ones). Driving down Canadaigua Road, we encountered a detour with lots of flashing lights and even more further down the road. On the last leg of the journey, I was wondering how I was going to work for the next 6 hours with a painful gut. I said, “Satan, I don’t have time for you today; get out!” By the time we arrived at the temple, my guts were settling down. Don’t you love how much God loves you and provides miracles in your life? I always am full of gratitude when I experience miracles whether they are teeny tiny or big.

“Gratitude provides us with a greater perspective on the very purpose and joy of life.”​ This is a quote from President Nelson from his November, 20, 2020 talk. “Practicing gratitude may not prevent us from experiencing sorrow, anger, or pain, but it can help us look forward with hope. We can give thanks for our loved ones, for our bodies and minds, for music and literature, for the beauty of the natural world.​” I loved that short 11 minute talk about gratitude. It definitely made me think about my prayers and to be grateful for all the things that I can think of. I remember having one week where I asked for nothing in my prayers but instead expressed gratitude for my life. It was eye opening to do this and feel how my heart changed.

We served our shift and headed home for a late lunch. I tried to do a few things online but then my eyelids would not stay open and I fell asleep in my chair. At some point Erik draped a quilt over me, so that I wouldn’t be cold. After thirty minutes, I felt better and carried on. The snow was slowing down and the sun was trying to poke out through the clouds. We walked to the distribution center and while Erik was being measured, I spotted a coin at his feet. Erik immediately told the store workers about finding coins and that it’s a sign that someone beyond the veil is trying to communicate with you. The funny thing is that this coin was something we had never seen before. I looked it up and discovered that is was a Fijian 1 Dollar coin. Who could be trying to tell us something?

We came home and I decided to try some different vegetables in a salad. I set up my food processor and used the slicing blade on a thin setting. I put brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots and onion through the processor. I made a dressing, tossed everything together and then topped it with Salad Toppers (seeds, cranberries, etc.). Erik likes the bagged brussel sprout, kale salad from Costco, but, I believe that anything you make at home is far superior.

Wednesday morning, I decided to try and figure out what gave me the “glutenized” gut that I had yesterday. It turns out that the Aussie Bites that we got from Costco are not gluten free like the ones in Canada. Same packaging; this learning curve may do me in! Today we had a “midshift” at the temple. This is a shift that runs from 10 am to 3 pm. Both Erik and I have been having very strange dreams about places that we’ve never been to and meeting so many people. They are simply a window into our lives as that is exactly what we are doing now. Every shift we meet more new people. We have visited a lot of places in the past three weeks, seeing things that we have never seen before. Slowly, we are learning the ways of the Palmyra temple as we get to work in different areas. We came home and tried to decide what to do for supper. With the different shift times and not having meal breaks, our meal times are so messed up. The one thing we do consistantly is eat breakfast. Erik is a get up and eat breakfast guy. No matter the time he gets up, he wants to eat within a few minutes of arising. I’m a slower waker-upper. I like my morning schedule and I’m not interested in eating right away. But with doing an early shift, I force myself to have a little bit of breakfast. Today I made a piece of toast spread with hummus and then I placed lengthwise slices of cocktail cucumbers on top. Yummy and nutricious!

Here comes the rain again…(are you singing it with me?) Off we go on an early shift for Thursday. It was extremely busy at the temple with a lot going on. Again, meeting new people and let me tell you, the best part is how warmly we are welcomed. The house of the Lord is all about love and kindness and that is exactly how we are been received.

I met the mother of a man who serves in our Bishopric in Lacombe. As I hugged her, it made me feel connected to home and little homesick. We had a lovely visit as she told me about her family and places that they have lived. One of the interesting things that sticks out in my mind is everyone’s last names here. They are so different from the last names in Alberta. Many of the people that I have met are actually from this area. Because I grew up in the military, I am used to moving around and asking people where they are from. I want to know about their family history; where their ancestors came from, what languages they speak, what dishes do they cook. Everyone wants to know where we are from. I have learned to say, “Western Canada.” Because in reality, Canada is only an hour away. But that’s not the area we are from. A few folk have family in the maritimes because of the migration of people years ago. They are either from Nova Scotia or from Acadians in the maritimes.

We received an email from our new landlord-to-be. Moving date can be Monday if all is well in the apartment. The Wall’s will be finishing their mission and heading home. Thus, us and the Gurr’s will be moving. My only concern is the steep stairs to get upstairs. I better not be in a hurry to get to the bathroom, or I will have to learn to fly up and down those stairs.

Our ice cream supply has diminished so, I have a strong suspicion that it may top the shopping list for tomorrow.

I’m not usually a fan of chocolate ice cream but this is very nice. A scoop of this is perfect for my chocolate wishes. Plus, it’s gluten free, yipee!

The Bishop’s Storehouse was on our agenda for Friday morning. It is located across from Hill Cumorah. We packaged fresh produce: bananas, oranges, peppers and broccoli. These then go on the storehouse side where members in need can place food orders. There are general household goods as well as groceries. On the side where we were packaging produce, the storehouse has freezed dried foods in #10 cans for sale. Anyone can go to the Bishop’s Storehouse to purchase these items. It is called the Home Storage order form that has all of the goods available for purchase. I asked the young missionaries who we were working with, what seems to be the most popular items. They said that the hot chocolate mix and the pancake mix were good sellers.

“While [bishops’] storehouses provide many of the same services as any retail food store, not one has a cash register. … These are goods that money cannot buy. No price tag is put on the time, effort, and love so generously contributed to the common good of those in need.”

—President Thomas S. Monson

After working at the Storehouse, we decided to get our groceries. We drove to Newark to the Wegman’s store. I love this chain of grocery stores. Beautiful produce and lots of choices are to be had. Going to Newark, you drive alongside the Erie Canal and go by little Port Gibson. In the summer, it’s going to be gorgeous. We finished up and headed home to prepare for our evening shift at the temple.

Saturday dawned with cloudy skies and drizzle. We were assigned to the midshift and arrived to a full parking lot. Today there was an ASL session and a Spanish session to be held. It was quite busy in the temple but everything went smoothly. I was starting to get a tad cranky late in the afternoon because I didn’t take Patti Hawryluk’s advice and put nuts in my pocket. Breakfast happened a long time ago and trying to keep blood sugars in check is a trial with our meals helter-skelter. At 6 pm, I was quite happy to get home and get a meal. Erik says to me, “I want to tell you that you are a grown woman and can look after yourself! But you seem to need some help!” I just said, “That’s why I have you to remind me.” When I get busy, I just keep going and forget to look after myself. I’m sure a lot of people do that; telling ourselves, it’s only a little bit longer and then that turns into a couple of hours.

It was the last temple shift for the senior missionaries who head home on Sunday and Monday. Tears and hugs were had all around. One of the couples heads home to start training for their service in the temple presidency in Arizona where they live. That will be a three year assignment. Lots of emotions as we part ways, but we know that we will see some again along our journey.

Erik and I arrived on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. As I entered the apartment, I noticed that it didn’t seem cleaned between the last tenants and us. While Erik unloaded the car, I started cleaning. We have two shelving units in the kitchen that serve us well. It is a one bedroom, one bathroom apartment. My Princess Self wasn’t thrilled about sharing a bathroom with my husband (I know, I know, it’s ridiculous). But we are making it all work. The bedding had been washed from the last tenants but as I made the bed, I found that the pillowcases were missing.

We started a shopping list to take to Wal-Mart. The Temple Recorder told us that Wal-Mart may be our best resource to get set up. During the pandemic, my daughter, Kaitlin and I did a house cleaning course on-line. We learned about tips and tricks for cleaning everything well. I have become a bit OCD about the cleanliness of everything. Thus first on my list was laundry soap, Borax, CIF Cream cleaner, hand soap, Fabuloso, garbage bags, Scrub Daddy dish wand, and Power Paste by Scrub Daddy. Erik was shocked to see that the bedroom had light filtering sheers and we knew that we need a dark bedroom, so, black-out drapes was added to the list. Off we went to Macedon to the Wal-Mart.

On Wednesday, we headed to Rochester to go to Costco. It’s about a 40 minute drive from our apartment. What a scenic drive, going through the small towns and seeing the beautiful homes. Sister Wall told us to go early to Costco because it is the only one in the city and it gets VERY busy. The parking lot was immense and we got there about 10 am. The set up was completely different than our Alberta Costco’s. Erik became overwhelmed with all the selection and trying to decide what we needed. We didn’t stay long, got our necessities and headed back to Palmyra. Interesting fact, the Costco chickens in Canada are not gluten free but we were able to buy them in Rochester Costco for only $4.99 each. Plus, they were much larger than the Canadian chickens. I was desperate for some beautiful veggies and did find brussel sprouts, etc.

Thursday took us for a little walk along Main Street. “Around the Block” quilt shop is only 2 blocks from me. We stopped in and I bought an apron pattern.

Then we headed towards the E.B. Grandin building. This magnificant block of stores were quite the feat in the 1800’s. This is where we had a tour of the printing business that printed the first edition of the Book of Mormon. The Lord’s hand was definitely in this venture to bring the sacred records to all of the world.

After lunch we decided to head south to the Peter Whitmer farm. This is in a Mennonite farming community and it was a beautiful tour. This is a very special place because this is where the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized, on April 6, 1830. It’s amazing to think that in 5 years, it will be the 200th anniversary of the event. The church is preparing to commemorate the event there with plans not yet unveiled to the general public. There were only 4 of us in our tour, a Grandpa and his teenage grandson, Erik and I. The grandson was amazing with his knowledge of church history.

We were told about the Sauder store in Seneca Falls. My heart was so happy being in that store. It is a Mennonite run store and they sell quilts there. The prices are very good. My new friend, Susan Wall happened to be there when a Cathedral Window quilt (king size) was on display. The window panes had shades of purple, which is significant to Susan. The workmanship was outstanding and I am so happy that she was able to purchase this heirloom.

I was able to buy red lentils, popcorn, beeswax cream, locally made apple cider, and the treat of the day was gluten free, triple chocolate ice cream. In the summer months, Curtis Wall told us that Sauder’s is brimming with produce and it’s amazing!

Friday brought us to trying out a little bit of a schedule. I brought my rebounder so that I could continue my workouts that I love. While I bounce, Erik goes for a walk. The Erie Canal trail is right behind us and he goes venturing about to see the area. We were invited to the Walls apartment for supper. This is the apartment that we will be moving into in the middle of April. We will be stationed there for the year. They had sent us some photos of the place but it was fun to see it in person and to meet them in person and get information about the area. This evening is when I got to see the Cathedral Window quilt that Susan bought. There is a lot to explore in this area. The temple will get much busier during the tourist season as well.

As well, our neighbors, Rick and Tonya Gurr arrived from Utah. They will also be moving next door to us when we move. They will have the front half of the house and we will have the back half. Like everything else here, it is an old home that has had some updates done to it. We were thrilled to learn that Rick and Tonya served a mission in Samoa with Scott and Pam Cameron. We have known Scott and Pam from our Olds Ward time and have been friends for over 30 years.

Saturday arrived with a winter warning forecast of freezing rain. It was only about 2C and rained in the afternoon. Our plan was to go south to the Priesthood Restoration Site along the Susquehanna river. It is in Pennsylvania and would be about 2.5 hours one way. With the weather forecast, we cancelled our plans and did some local shopping. While we were shopping, Erik’s cell phone rings and it’s the Temple President checking in with us and letting us know where we are being assigned to attend Sunday meetings. I got really excited when Erik told me the news. We are going to the north side of Rochester to attend the Spanish Branch!!!!!!!! As we were finishing our evening prayer, Erik turns to me with a chuckle. “Did you pray for this!?!” I replied, “No, but I think it’s only fair that you got your prayer answered by wanting to serve in the USA. I checked off the Oaxaca Mission on our application and the Lord’s answer to me is being able to attend a Spanish Branch!” Side note, while we were in Huatulco in February, I received direction that I was to buy a Spanish Book of Mormon. While at the distribution center in Omaha, I purchased a Spanish edition of the Book of Mormon. Then the missionary leaders told me that on Amazon, you can purchase a side by side Book of Mormon with English and Spanish. So, I love that the Lord was preparing me to continue in Spanish.

I purchased a couple of books today. One I needed because my days of seminary (Doctrine & Covenants) are long past. That was my first year of seminary and it was home study. I need maps and I need to know why the Latter-Day Saints moved from this spot to that spot. It was first published in 2012 and this was an updated book, called, Mapping Mormonism. Plus I purchased, “Insights from a Prophet’s Life.” Erik has grabbed onto that is over half-way through already.

Sunday dawned with more rain but the temperature was going to 16 C. We attended the Palmyra Ward today. There was a large number of people attending and the Bishop stood up to conduct the meeting and said, “He loves spring when the crocuses start appearing as well as the visitors.” There had to be at least 250 people in attendance. I think between Spring Break and senior missionaries finishing their missions, a lot of families were visiting. Plus there were all the newbies, like ourselves who are starting their missions. We are meeting so many people and new missionaries who are trying to find their way. I do know that the Lord will uphold us all and give us the strength to do His work.

We usually go for a walk on Sundays and so, we togged up in rain gear and headed out for a stroll. Erik lead us along the canal path. It’s a path that the mules walked as they pulled the barges up and down the canal. There was a bridge that was closed to vehicle traffic. I’m not a fan of heights and I chose the paved sidewalk over the mesh bridge. I kept telling myself, “You’re going to be okay, you’re going to be okay. You can do this! You’re almost over the bridge!” We met a couple walking their Bernese Mountain dog. They also filled us in on information about the town and area. I asked what industry feeds the tax base and they responded with, “Well, the Mormons come here in the summer!” Hahaha…well, here we are!