Monday, April 23
We took the bus with the girls to Heathrow Airport for their flight home. They needed our help getting all the luggage there, and we wanted to see them off. I can't believe their visit is over - it went by so fast. But I'll not be sad - just grateful they could come!
We drove home, unpacked and began our laundry. Something seems to be wrong with our little washing machine - it sounds like an airplane taking off during the spin cycle. Will call the landlord tomorrow.
FHE was really nice. Amanda always does such thoughtful lessons. Leanne did a fun game, and we brought treats. It felt really good to be back with the YSA. I've got a little sore throat and runny nose - hope it will pass with rest - heaven knows we are exhausted!
Tuesday, April 24
Not much to report. After "playing" with the girls we really need to work on our lessons for this week. I called the landlord about the washing machine and have scheduled an appointment with a repairman for Friday. I don't think it's much - still works, just makes so much noise.
A cough is now accompanying my sore throat and runny nose and I feel pretty under the weather - which by the way is still rainy and depressing. Took a nap!
Wednesday, April 25
I am full blown sick! But have to teach tonight so tried to rest between working on my lesson. Institute went well - we both had to teach tonight - but I could hardly wait to go to bed.
Thursday, April 26
Today is the last Zone Conference before we go home, and before President and Sister Ogden go home. Also, a rather large group of missionaries we have worked with will be going home. So, no matter how I felt, staying home was not an option. These meetings are always good, but this one was especially tender. At the end of Zone Conference the missionaries being released before next Zone Conference give their "parting testimony." It is always very spiritual - something not to be missed. I was quite surprised that they asked us to also give our parting testimonies - not an easy task. There were lots of hugs and tears. What a privilege it has been to work with and know these amazing young men and women. They are spiritual giants! I hope we will keep in touch. Many live in Utah, so we will see them again for sure. That makes saying good bye a little easier.
Friday, April 27
I think I am feeling a little better - hooray! Unfortunately the weather is not getting any better. In fact, I think this has been the rainiest week we have had while in England! As Elder Uchtdorf said: "STOP IT!"
The washing machine repair man came and declared our machine to be dead...or rather close to it. Apparently the bearings are shot. Thankfully we have a wonderful landlord. She will shop for a new one in the next few days. In the meantime we made a trip to the laundromat and did three loads of washing - cost over £5.00 per load to wash and dry. Hope she finds a new machine quickly.
Devon had an appointment for a haircut this afternoon. He scheduled one more, and that will be his last before we leave. I called my beautician in Utah and made an appointment for a cut the day after we get home. I'm going to just hold out until then - I'm hoping she can work a miracle!
We met the sisters at 7:00 to teach two new YSA aged female investigators. They are both students at the University of Birmingham. I'm not sure if they are interested or just curious, but the meeting went well. They both accepted a Book of Mormon, so we'll see if they want to meet again.
Saturday, April 28
Yep, I'm better. Still have a cough, but so improved. We ventured out to do Tuck Shop shopping at Wing Yip and Costco (£110 worth of candy and soda), and a little shopping for us. It was a typical Saturday at Costco and we quickly remembered why we try to not go on Saturday.
In the evening we drove to Stourbridge to go to dinner with the Morgans and then play pinochle. We really do enjoy their company. It's too bad our time together didn't over lap more.
Sunday, April 29
Another day of hard rain and wind. Even the Brits are complaining! I feel really bad for the elders that are on bikes, but they just carry on. Their dedication to missionary work is so inspiring and amazing! Church was very nice...except it makes me sad when they talk about upcoming events that we will be gone for. But, our departure is set. Postponing it won't make leaving any easier.
