Monday, May 31, 2010
30 May 2010
We are delighted to have visiting with us three grandchildren, Ceci, Tanner, and Connor, all from Idaho. They arrived Thursday evening and will be with us for one week. So far going to the beach and riding the zip line near Dennery have filled our days. It is fun to have them here and we hope they enjoy their visit.
Wednesday morning, 9:00 a.m., we had Elders Barker and Larson at the airport in Castries. Their missions completed they were now returning home. They have been good missionaries and we are glad for the association we have had with them. Last transfer time we mentioned ‘Liat-The Caribbean Airline’, and their consistent inconsistencies. This transfer episode: elders returning home fly to Trinidad first, then from there to home. Just as Elder Barker was about to pass through the security door his name was announced over the intercom system to report to the ticketing desk. He either didn’t hear it, or ignored it, and passed on through the security door. So Elder Treseder checked at the desk to see if it was something of concern. On the flight to Trinidad the elders have a change of aircraft in Barbados. It seems that Elder Barker’s seat from Barbados to Trinidad, even though he had had his ticket for almost two months, had been sold. Therefore he would be stranded at that airport until the next seat was available, and they couldn’t tell Elder Treseder for sure when that would be. Even though the ticketing agent offered varied excuses Elder Treseder, in his firm, yet dignified manner, expressed his displeasure to the situation. It paid off for while waiting for the 10:30 a.m. arrival of Elders Nielsen and Taylor, the ticketing agent informed Elder Treseder that there had been a cancellation and he had made sure Elder Barker was the recipient of the seat. So all ended well. To Liat’s credit, Elders Nielsen and Taylor, our new elders, did arrive right on time.
Sister Baptisite-one of two heros for the week. When we first arrived and were getting acquainted with the members we were told Sister Baptiste, the oldest member of the branch, didn’t know how to read. And that has been re-enforced in that she has never been asked, nor offered, to read in any of the classes. About two months ago we (Elder and Sister Faux) began teaching (the best we know how) the Literacy Course prepared by the Church to help members learn to read. Sister Baptiste is one of the students and to our delight we discovered she had some reading skills. She has been very faithful in doing all the lessons and homework assignments, even working ahead on her own. In last Wednesday’s night gospel study class, Elder Faux, sitting by her, volunteered her to read a verse. She was a little reluctant but did read the verse- with exactness and clarity. When she finished there was clapping of hands and shouts of approval as other class members, and President Nicholas, expressed their surprise and delight. And Sister Baptiste-she was all smiles.
Hero number two goes to Stephon who was ordained a deacon last Sunday. He arrived at church today looking splendid in his white shirt and tie-and a thrill to see him passing the sacrament. He is a handsome young man as his photo attests.
Sister Faux- As Elder Faux mentioned we do have three grandchildren visiting us for a week. Today at Sacrament Meeting Ceci played the piano, as she did on her previous visit, then she gave a talk on modesty, Connor spoke on Family Home Evening and Tanner spoke on keeping the Sabbath Day holy. They were all well done and the subjects, selected by the Branch President, were very needed in the branch. They made their grandparents proud and happy. As I have said before it is wonderful to have family to love and enjoy. We are so excited for them to be here and we are enjoying them very much.
We were sorry when Elder Larson and Barker left to return home. They are great young men and we have enjoyed them very much. We wish them health and happiness at home. We have talked about elders shoes wearing out and if you saw the miles they walk you would understand why they wear out. Elder Nielsen just arrived from Trinidad and had the opportunity to drive a car there- walking is harder and much slower but he will get used to it once again. Elder Taylor is just coming from the MTC and so has many adjustments to make. The humidity and heat are hard to get used to. I think today has been the hottest and most humid for us so far. Back to the shoes the elders always take their shoes off when entering any house. Mothers would be upset if they watched how they remove the shoes and get them back on… I can’t explain how they do it but just slip and slide, and break the backs down. They all don’t do that but most do. It sort of drives me wild!
One thing I keep thinking about is that the elders take off their watches and don’t wear them after being here for a short time. It is so hot and sticky and just too miserable. Elder Brenkmann’s family sent him a small watch that he can hook on his belt loop and is very nice and handy. That would be a very good gift idea when it is gift time. Then Elder Larson had some small hanging scales that he could weigh his suitcase on before reporting to the airport. The weight of the suitcase is very difficult for most elders. The scales would be a great gift idea as well.
It is still mango season and they are wonderful. The mango trees are all over and very, very large. I am not sure how they pick them. Right now we have huge trees in bloom with beautiful red flowers. I don’t know the name but I have been trying to get a picture of them. If I can we will send it on the blog. One last thought, in the store when they don’t have an item that we need they just say, ‘it is finished’. No explanation just —‘it is finished’. And I am finished also—have a great week. Sister and Elder Faux
We are delighted to have visiting with us three grandchildren, Ceci, Tanner, and Connor, all from Idaho. They arrived Thursday evening and will be with us for one week. So far going to the beach and riding the zip line near Dennery have filled our days. It is fun to have them here and we hope they enjoy their visit.
Wednesday morning, 9:00 a.m., we had Elders Barker and Larson at the airport in Castries. Their missions completed they were now returning home. They have been good missionaries and we are glad for the association we have had with them. Last transfer time we mentioned ‘Liat-The Caribbean Airline’, and their consistent inconsistencies. This transfer episode: elders returning home fly to Trinidad first, then from there to home. Just as Elder Barker was about to pass through the security door his name was announced over the intercom system to report to the ticketing desk. He either didn’t hear it, or ignored it, and passed on through the security door. So Elder Treseder checked at the desk to see if it was something of concern. On the flight to Trinidad the elders have a change of aircraft in Barbados. It seems that Elder Barker’s seat from Barbados to Trinidad, even though he had had his ticket for almost two months, had been sold. Therefore he would be stranded at that airport until the next seat was available, and they couldn’t tell Elder Treseder for sure when that would be. Even though the ticketing agent offered varied excuses Elder Treseder, in his firm, yet dignified manner, expressed his displeasure to the situation. It paid off for while waiting for the 10:30 a.m. arrival of Elders Nielsen and Taylor, the ticketing agent informed Elder Treseder that there had been a cancellation and he had made sure Elder Barker was the recipient of the seat. So all ended well. To Liat’s credit, Elders Nielsen and Taylor, our new elders, did arrive right on time.
Sister Baptisite-one of two heros for the week. When we first arrived and were getting acquainted with the members we were told Sister Baptiste, the oldest member of the branch, didn’t know how to read. And that has been re-enforced in that she has never been asked, nor offered, to read in any of the classes. About two months ago we (Elder and Sister Faux) began teaching (the best we know how) the Literacy Course prepared by the Church to help members learn to read. Sister Baptiste is one of the students and to our delight we discovered she had some reading skills. She has been very faithful in doing all the lessons and homework assignments, even working ahead on her own. In last Wednesday’s night gospel study class, Elder Faux, sitting by her, volunteered her to read a verse. She was a little reluctant but did read the verse- with exactness and clarity. When she finished there was clapping of hands and shouts of approval as other class members, and President Nicholas, expressed their surprise and delight. And Sister Baptiste-she was all smiles.
Hero number two goes to Stephon who was ordained a deacon last Sunday. He arrived at church today looking splendid in his white shirt and tie-and a thrill to see him passing the sacrament. He is a handsome young man as his photo attests.
Sister Faux- As Elder Faux mentioned we do have three grandchildren visiting us for a week. Today at Sacrament Meeting Ceci played the piano, as she did on her previous visit, then she gave a talk on modesty, Connor spoke on Family Home Evening and Tanner spoke on keeping the Sabbath Day holy. They were all well done and the subjects, selected by the Branch President, were very needed in the branch. They made their grandparents proud and happy. As I have said before it is wonderful to have family to love and enjoy. We are so excited for them to be here and we are enjoying them very much.
We were sorry when Elder Larson and Barker left to return home. They are great young men and we have enjoyed them very much. We wish them health and happiness at home. We have talked about elders shoes wearing out and if you saw the miles they walk you would understand why they wear out. Elder Nielsen just arrived from Trinidad and had the opportunity to drive a car there- walking is harder and much slower but he will get used to it once again. Elder Taylor is just coming from the MTC and so has many adjustments to make. The humidity and heat are hard to get used to. I think today has been the hottest and most humid for us so far. Back to the shoes the elders always take their shoes off when entering any house. Mothers would be upset if they watched how they remove the shoes and get them back on… I can’t explain how they do it but just slip and slide, and break the backs down. They all don’t do that but most do. It sort of drives me wild!
One thing I keep thinking about is that the elders take off their watches and don’t wear them after being here for a short time. It is so hot and sticky and just too miserable. Elder Brenkmann’s family sent him a small watch that he can hook on his belt loop and is very nice and handy. That would be a very good gift idea when it is gift time. Then Elder Larson had some small hanging scales that he could weigh his suitcase on before reporting to the airport. The weight of the suitcase is very difficult for most elders. The scales would be a great gift idea as well.
It is still mango season and they are wonderful. The mango trees are all over and very, very large. I am not sure how they pick them. Right now we have huge trees in bloom with beautiful red flowers. I don’t know the name but I have been trying to get a picture of them. If I can we will send it on the blog. One last thought, in the store when they don’t have an item that we need they just say, ‘it is finished’. No explanation just —‘it is finished’. And I am finished also—have a great week. Sister and Elder Faux
Monday, May 24, 2010
23 May 2010 Sunday
As mentioned last week Diana and Ronald Williamson, the missionary couple we replaced, arrived on Saturday the 15th for a week visit. A whirlwind week of visiting we should say. It was interesting at church on Sunday morning to see the surprise and pleasure on the faces of the branch members as they recognized and greeted the Williamsons’. We were pleased that we could help them with most of their transportation needs. A few times, however, they did rely on the local buses to meet their schedule. We had a pre-planned day with the Castries missionaries in Soufriere on Monday so not much help that day. They were able to join with us in Castries on Tuesday for district meeting. Our district meeting began by singing Happy Birthday to Elder Larson. Elders Warhurst and Buhler then served us ice cream with banana bread that they had baked earlier in the morning. What a way to start a district meeting. After the meeting and before leaving Castries Brother and Sister Williamson acquainted us with the Caribelle Batik. A boutique that is located in the hills above Castries. It is not only a fun place to shop but gives you a panoramic view of Castries. Although they spent a good deal of their time visiting with various branch members they took the time to attend the Wednesday evening gospel study class and Thursday night seminary. Friday afternoon we drove to the Fiette region of Choiseul-about a one-half hour drive north of Vieux Fort-for a nice visit with Firmus and Cecelia Hippolyte and family. Then all at once it was Sunday afternoon and departure time. We were glad that we could help them out and hope they had a good visit.
A highlight of the week was the baptism of Toya James on Saturday morning. Even more noteworthy in that she was taught by Elders Barker and Larson; and they depart for home next Wednesday so a great way for them to end their mission. Another special event of the week was Stephon Mitchell receiving the Aaronic Priesthood and being ordained a deacon. Last week we mentioned the Denison Gustave Family that lives in Choiseul-and that Denison is recovering from a broken leg. Stephon is Denison’s step-son. Stephon was sustained in church then a little later in the afternoon Branch President Nicholas, Evans William, elders quorum president, Elders Brenkmann and Bowles, and Elder Faux drove to the Gustave home. There, under the direction of President Nicholas, Denison conferred the Aaronic Priesthood and ordained Stephon a deacon. His first opportunities to do something like this and he did splendidly. And as was mentioned last week, and it is most applicable this week as well, “It seems that when we visit this family, that has so little, we always leave having had a rewarding spiritual experience”.
Sister Faux: Hi, I believe Elder Faux has covered our week fairly well. Tomorrow we are going to celebrate Elder Larson’s 21st birthday and also combine the lunch with a farewell party for Elder Larson and Elder Barker. They will both be going to the mission home in Trinidad on Wednesday and from there they will be heading home. Elder Barker’s parents and a sister are coming to pick him up and so they will be traveling to Trinidad, Guyana and one other place?? But not coming back to St Lucia. They are stopping in New York to visit his grandmother. Elder Larson will travel to Salt Lake City where he will be met with his family and chocolate milk. He is excited to see all of them and the chocolate milk is a bonus! His family is traveling to Europe in a week or so and then he and his sister are staying for the summer and traveling with a backpack and going to tour wherever they want. Sounds fun. These young elders were mission companions in the MTC and did not hit it off to well there but have had a very good companionship here in St Lucia. We wish them well and will miss them very much. Elder Brenkmann and Bowles will not be transferred and will have two new elders come in on Wednesday. They are Elder Nielson and Taylor. Elder Taylor is just arriving from the MTC and we hope he likes it here. Have not heard anything about Elder Nielson, so hope all goes well. Elders Brenkmann and Bowles, Randy and Branch President (and maybe Faux) are going fishing at 2 am this morning. President Nicholas is leaving for England in a week to stay with his wife who is expecting a baby in June. They are going to be sealed in the London Temple while waiting for the baby to be born. He will be staying for three months so we hope the branch will get along without him for that long. He is a good man and will be greatly missed. It is a good thing that this mission is coming to an end as I cannot recall the things that I have told you. So if I have told you the next story before just skip this part and have a happy week. There are four medical schools in St Lucia and most of the students seem to be from third world countries plus a number of Americans. The apartment complex that we live in is filled with medical students, except for us. I believe there are about 12 apartments and there are always people waiting for an apartment. Our landlady has several waiting for our apartment when we leave. She is going to start building a 16 unit complex across the street and I am sure she will have a waiting list for that. When an apartment empties they go in and completely clean every tiny spot from new paint and everything else. It is very nice to move into a well prepared place like that. Well that is about it for now—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true!!! Sister Faux and Elder Faux
As mentioned last week Diana and Ronald Williamson, the missionary couple we replaced, arrived on Saturday the 15th for a week visit. A whirlwind week of visiting we should say. It was interesting at church on Sunday morning to see the surprise and pleasure on the faces of the branch members as they recognized and greeted the Williamsons’. We were pleased that we could help them with most of their transportation needs. A few times, however, they did rely on the local buses to meet their schedule. We had a pre-planned day with the Castries missionaries in Soufriere on Monday so not much help that day. They were able to join with us in Castries on Tuesday for district meeting. Our district meeting began by singing Happy Birthday to Elder Larson. Elders Warhurst and Buhler then served us ice cream with banana bread that they had baked earlier in the morning. What a way to start a district meeting. After the meeting and before leaving Castries Brother and Sister Williamson acquainted us with the Caribelle Batik. A boutique that is located in the hills above Castries. It is not only a fun place to shop but gives you a panoramic view of Castries. Although they spent a good deal of their time visiting with various branch members they took the time to attend the Wednesday evening gospel study class and Thursday night seminary. Friday afternoon we drove to the Fiette region of Choiseul-about a one-half hour drive north of Vieux Fort-for a nice visit with Firmus and Cecelia Hippolyte and family. Then all at once it was Sunday afternoon and departure time. We were glad that we could help them out and hope they had a good visit.
A highlight of the week was the baptism of Toya James on Saturday morning. Even more noteworthy in that she was taught by Elders Barker and Larson; and they depart for home next Wednesday so a great way for them to end their mission. Another special event of the week was Stephon Mitchell receiving the Aaronic Priesthood and being ordained a deacon. Last week we mentioned the Denison Gustave Family that lives in Choiseul-and that Denison is recovering from a broken leg. Stephon is Denison’s step-son. Stephon was sustained in church then a little later in the afternoon Branch President Nicholas, Evans William, elders quorum president, Elders Brenkmann and Bowles, and Elder Faux drove to the Gustave home. There, under the direction of President Nicholas, Denison conferred the Aaronic Priesthood and ordained Stephon a deacon. His first opportunities to do something like this and he did splendidly. And as was mentioned last week, and it is most applicable this week as well, “It seems that when we visit this family, that has so little, we always leave having had a rewarding spiritual experience”.
Sister Faux: Hi, I believe Elder Faux has covered our week fairly well. Tomorrow we are going to celebrate Elder Larson’s 21st birthday and also combine the lunch with a farewell party for Elder Larson and Elder Barker. They will both be going to the mission home in Trinidad on Wednesday and from there they will be heading home. Elder Barker’s parents and a sister are coming to pick him up and so they will be traveling to Trinidad, Guyana and one other place?? But not coming back to St Lucia. They are stopping in New York to visit his grandmother. Elder Larson will travel to Salt Lake City where he will be met with his family and chocolate milk. He is excited to see all of them and the chocolate milk is a bonus! His family is traveling to Europe in a week or so and then he and his sister are staying for the summer and traveling with a backpack and going to tour wherever they want. Sounds fun. These young elders were mission companions in the MTC and did not hit it off to well there but have had a very good companionship here in St Lucia. We wish them well and will miss them very much. Elder Brenkmann and Bowles will not be transferred and will have two new elders come in on Wednesday. They are Elder Nielson and Taylor. Elder Taylor is just arriving from the MTC and we hope he likes it here. Have not heard anything about Elder Nielson, so hope all goes well. Elders Brenkmann and Bowles, Randy and Branch President (and maybe Faux) are going fishing at 2 am this morning. President Nicholas is leaving for England in a week to stay with his wife who is expecting a baby in June. They are going to be sealed in the London Temple while waiting for the baby to be born. He will be staying for three months so we hope the branch will get along without him for that long. He is a good man and will be greatly missed. It is a good thing that this mission is coming to an end as I cannot recall the things that I have told you. So if I have told you the next story before just skip this part and have a happy week. There are four medical schools in St Lucia and most of the students seem to be from third world countries plus a number of Americans. The apartment complex that we live in is filled with medical students, except for us. I believe there are about 12 apartments and there are always people waiting for an apartment. Our landlady has several waiting for our apartment when we leave. She is going to start building a 16 unit complex across the street and I am sure she will have a waiting list for that. When an apartment empties they go in and completely clean every tiny spot from new paint and everything else. It is very nice to move into a well prepared place like that. Well that is about it for now—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is true!!! Sister Faux and Elder Faux
Monday, May 17, 2010
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