Monday, October 2, 2017

After a beautiful, chilly walk first thing this morning, (we try to go about three miles each time) I went to the church to practice the organ and Glade went to “The Sweat Shop” to sign up for a membership so he can get more cardio and have access to muscle building machines!

There was an activity this afternoon and evening for all the missionary couples, temple presidency, and full time regional temple workers at a place called Foulger’s (folger) Barn.  Another couple invited us to go with them for which we were grateful since we don’t know our way around very well.  Anyway, it took just under an hour’s drive from here and was located in a farm reserve.  A counselor in the temple presidency built it for his family and now includes invitations to Scout groups, all sizes of church groups, firesides, etc.  There are sleeping areas in a loft and It was never used as an animal barn.  It sits out in the middle of a big field, but has trees around it and is in a beautiful setting close to Sugar Loaf Mountain—only in the East can they call a hill a mountain!

Grilled chicken, pulled pork, and ribs were provided and the missionaries brought pot luck to round out a very nice meal which followed a “hayride,” games, and lots of visiting.  This outing is a traditional activity called a “Hail and Farewell” and newly arrived missionaries and those who are leaving to go home are invited to introduce themselves, or to say their good-byes.  It is not always at the Foulger’s Barn, but it was a treat for us tonight. 

Now, the fun is done and the work in the temple begins.   We will train again tomorrow and then start working in our shifts.  Saturday is expected to be a big day for Spanish speakers in the temple and we will probably work more than one shift.  Monday is Columbus Day and the temple will be open as it usually is on Monday holidays, so the next two weeks are going to be very busy. 

Here are a few pictures from our “Hail and Farewell” activity.  

 Sugar Loaf Mountain