Monday Transfers and FHE

February 9  Monday

Usually Monday mornings are greeted with anticipation of what new adventure we will be having.  The Copas have been very instrumental in our Monday activities because they have a car, and they like to discover the many beautiful areas here in Brazil.  Today was greeted with much sadness, not because we are not going anywhere, but sad for Copa's tragic loss of their youngest son.  He was skiing in Park City (extreme sports enthusiast) and somehow pierced his heart with a ski pole.



Three Elders came to visit before their trip to Porto Alegre to receive their transfer assignments.  Elder Piccini had received a letter stating that he will now be a trainer, Elder Munoz is being transferred, Elder Rebeira will be receiving a new companion as Elder Spadari is going home.  Elder Oliveira will be staying in Canela and will receive a new companion as Elder Lagos is being transferred (don't know where yet).  It is always a little sad as Elders leave, but new ones are always coming to fill in the hole.  All four Sister missionaries are being transferred from the Gramado area and will be replaced by four new Elders.  We understand that the four Elders in Taquara are being replaced by four new ones.  Will know exactly how things are at the District meeting on Friday.

Merl and I took a piano lesson book to the copier to have five new ones made.  I don't know if our new students in SF de Paulo will be able to purchase books or not, but we will be ready.  I picked up supplies to make practice keyboards for the students to use at home, laminated paper with picture of keys (teclas).  We spent time visiting different stores checking on availability and pricing of tents and sleeping pads in the event that we aren't able to borrow a tent (barraca) from someone in the Branch (Ramo).  Merl withdrew some more cash at the bank since the exchange rate is still high.

Elder Munoz with Lauren, David,
and Teri Keller

The David Keller family was invited to have waffles for dinner with us - and to have Family Home Evening.  They brought two boxes of ice cream, strawberry and vanilla (marango and baunilha).   Everyone loves waffles here with hot maple syrup - sent home a bottle of flavoring with Teri.  We played several games of Spot-It which has been a favorite of visitors to our home.  Wish I had come with several games to share.

After dinner, we skyped with Curtis to catch up on what's going on in Twin Falls.  He reported that a renter was having trouble with a refrigerator.  We gave instructions to check it out and replace it if necessary.  They ended up replacing it, and the renter is happy again.  We appreciate Curtis for taking care of things for us at home.  Makes it easier to be away - but I understand we OWE him.

If you haven't heard by email or other means, contact Brent Egbert or April McQueen to send any available white shirts down to us.  A great need here!  Thank you in advance.