Aug. 18-24, 2018

Every day Russ and I put on our name badges as part of our daily getting ready routine.  We do not leave home without them.  They say:
Elder Grimmett or Sister Grimmett
KIRCHE       
JESU CHRISTI
DER HEILIGEN
DER LETZTEN TAGE

Translated:
THE CHURCH OF
JESUS CHRIST
OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

This past week our Church announced a new policy regarding the name of our Church and how we refer to it in public or private settings.  The policy stated:  While the term "Mormon Church" has long been publicly applied to the Church as a nickname, it is not an authorized title, and the Church discourages its use. Pres. Russell M. Nelson made the following statement:
"The Lord has impressed upon my mind the importance of the name He has revealed for His Church, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  We have work before us to bring ourselves in harmony with His will. "

It is amazing to me how much recognition that name tag bears.  Most people we come in contact with in public on the tram, bus or just walking down the street, look at our name tags and try to figure out what it says or what it means.  Little children are very intrigued.  I don't think they notice what we are wearing as much as the name tag - except for maybe Russ always in a white shirt and tie- that draws a lot of attention!  This name has always meant a lot to me, but now, when I wear the name on my dress everyday I am reminded of who I am serving and who I represent.  I am so grateful to have this opportunity to serve at this time and in this place.

Saturday morning we were up bright and early and drove to a little village about 20 minutes away to help a family move.  It was a beautiful morning with the fog coming down the mountains after a night of rain.  Most homes here are multi-family dwellings with 3 or 4 families in each building with their own home.  This family lived on the third floor in a very nice home.  They have a keller (basement) to store things in as well.  This family had their home on the third floor and then the keller had their office and storage.  So we worked really hard loading the boxes and furniture with about 10 other people.  We went up and down the stairs many times.  We did not know where they were moving and when the truck was full with still half of their home to be loaded, we found out they had built a new free standing home just down the street.  They said, "Oh you can just walk it is only 500 meters to their new home.  So we walked with a few others (most drove) the 10 minute walk to their new home.  We arrived and it was amazing.  They build everything including apartments all out of cement.  They build to last 500 years, and they do.  This was a large 5 bedroom home that was amazing in the design.  Their homes are very functional with no extra space.  So when I say a large home - it is not like a Texas home, but by German standards, it was very high end.  It was fun to see the construction and how it is done.  It was a great morning of service.

Cinnamon Roll Dough

One of the things I wanted to do when we arrived was to purchase a Bosch kitchen mixer.  I have had one for many years, but after 45 years the bowl broke and I have had a hard time getting it repaired.  The shop in Utah told me at that age, it was time to buy a new one.  I said, why when the motor still worked fine.  So, I knew they were made in Germany and I could use it while I am here to make bread and cinnamon rolls.  I have been looking and trying to find a place to purchase one.  We were walking around town and just happened upon an Electronics store in a little mall.  It was just what we were looking for.  They had Bosch and several models.  I still can't believe I was able to get one and for only 99 Euro.  They are about $300 in the US.  So that makes me happy and also meant I would need to try it out.  Since Saturday has become our Date Night, we went to dinner early and then I came home and tried out my new machine.

I will not send pictures of food every week.  We are just having so much fun finding great restaurants in our city.  Russ loves gulasch (goulash) soup and we found a biergarten (beer garden) that specialized in it.  So we went and he got this whole tureen filled with soup.  I had potatoes and sausage and was not disappointed.  So much food for 1 person.  And of course, great bread!

Needless to say, we were worn out by the end of the day.  For Russ, that is always around 10:00 PM.  For me, I was still making cinnamon rolls and it was more like 12:00 before bed and I was exhausted, but so excited to be using my new machine. I don't need anything else, I am set.

Sunday morning came very early.  We have been asked to visit a church in another city about 45 minutes away at least once a month.  This was our day to go so we went on another adventure.  They meet on the third floor of an office building.  It took us awhile to find it even with GPS and a few phone calls.  We enjoyed the visit to this small branch of about 50 people.  They had lunch after church and it was nice to stay and visit and get to know them better.  I took homemade bread and cinnamon rolls.  They eat lots of salad and cold vegetables here.  A lot of pickled foods.  We are getting used to the Mineral Water for drinks.
We had also been asked to go pick up some keys so that we could inspect some apartments that the younger missionaries live in.  So, we left Lahr and drove 3 hours to a city called ULM.  It has the

 tallest church spire in all of Europe.  We arranged to meet there to pick up the keys so that we could also see it.  You can pay 5 Euro and climb the 746 stairs to the top.  We thought about it and decided we still had a 3 hour drive back home and that would not be a good idea.  I think I could have done the first 100 but no way the 746 stairs.  It is a Lutheran Church and was started in the late 1300's but was not completed until 1890.  It was protected in WWII by the Americans.  They bombed all around it with a lot of destruction and then flew over later and dropped sacks of flour to let them know they could have hit that target, but left it untouched because of its great history. 

Model of Ulm Munster

 It is one of the largest churches I have been in.  It was beautiful with a large organ that Mozart actually performed on.  It is sad that currently they said they only have about 20 people who worship there on Sunday.  It is unfortunate that so many churches are only able to stay open because they have become tourist attractions.

Archangel David

 We did not arrive home until 10:00 PM.  Another long day but we had experiences we will always remember.




We were invited to have lunch on Monday at the home of the Church leader of the little town we visited on Sunday.  He is what we call a Branch President.  He lives in Freiburg, but serves in Lahr because they are so small and need help.  It was a delightful experience.  He is a retired surgeon.  He was the head of the Pediatric Surgery Department at the University of Freiburg Hospital.  He is now serving in the city government.  He and his wife were so gracious to us.  We started with homemade cream of zucchini soup.  I thought that was great for lunch and could have ended there.  Then they brought out salad, potatoes and pork.  It was so good.  Interesting that the salad is served with a warm dressing on it and the potatoes are served cold.  They eat a lot healthier than most Americans.  Pure food without sauces and gravies.  They topped of that wonderful meal with mango and cherry gelato.  We were there for almost 3 hours and it was so interesting as they shared their story.  I am so grateful for so many that endured very difficult circumstances and have lived to tell their stories.  Her parents left Northern Germany during the War to get away from the Russian troops that were invading Germany and settled in Saxony. Her father was called to serve a mission for the church leaving her mother and her and expecting another child.  Those were difficult days for her family, but they endured and continued on.   Just 6 months before the Wall was built in the 1960's, her father felt impressed to move his family to Southern Germany.  They got out just in time.  She was 12 years old and remembers how it was back then.  With four young children they left and started over.  Just two years later her father was killed in a work accident leaving her mother alone again to raise her family.  The older German people are tough and yet very loving when you get to know them.  I was humbled as I heard her story and then saw the influence her family has had in this area.  She has 9 children. Their home is a welcome place to so many.  They rent out their upstairs apartment to Young Single Adults and have about 4 living there currently.  They have lived their life serving their Church, their family and also their community.  We were truly blessed by being in their home .  We look forward to a continued friendship as we try to help in their Church Branch with their members.

It was my turn to cook for Monday night Family Home Evening with the Young Adults.  I tried a little Tex-Mex on them and served Burrito Bowls.  It turned our good and they really liked it.  We had Flour tortillas (I found good ones at a Turkish Market), Rice, black beans and pinto beans, hamburger and TVP(soy protein for the vegetarians).  We had all of the toppings of lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream.  I am still getting used to the sour cream and other dairy - it is not the same.  I will learn to be a better shopper and find the kind I like.  I made homemade Salsa and served it with tortilla chips.  They loved the Salsa.  I am still recovering from the first time I made Salsa last week.  They put red pepper in everything!  I cannot find Taco seasoning or what we would call Chili powder, but you can find all kinds of chili or what they call paprika powder.  So, I had some in the cupboard and needed to taste it before I knew how much to put in the recipe.  I just put a little on my finger and put it in my mouth.  Well, It burned my lip so bad.  It swelled double in size and got a big blister.  It has been 10 days and it is just now healing with just a little sore left.  So, I learned to use it sparingly, and the Salsa has a good bite to it.  My Texas family would really like it because it is hotter than I usually make it.  I am liking their spices and fresher flavor.  We ended with the Cinnamon Rolls and that was a real treat for all of them.  Did I mention I love my new Bosch???

Tuesday PDay is a welcome relief.  We need the day just to catch up from the last several days.  There is always laundry and cleaning and correspondence that needs to be done.  Sleeping in is always good too.  Most people here do not have dryers and use racks on their porches and balconies to dry.  I have been frustrated that my dryer does not dry very fast so today I tried my drying rack.  I LOVE IT!  I hung the dress shirts on the racks on hangers and they look like they were just pressed - the real wash and wear.  My dresses dried so good, and I know they will last longer not being in the dryer.  I am sure I will like the dryer in the winter.

There is an old castle ruin on the edge of town and Russ wanted to go see it.  There is a tram and elevator that you can take part way up.  He asked if I wanted to go ride it and see the city from the top of the mountain.  I was up for the adventure and the ride.  When we got there, we were on the wrong side for the ride and there was a large, very steep trail you could hike to the top.  Russ said that is what he wanted to do.  This was not what I had agreed to.  So, we started up the mountain and it was very steep.  I did not know if I could do it, but after the first 10 minutes my body gave way to my will and it became more enjoyable.  The first lookout over the city made it worthwhile. I have shown pictures of the Munster ((cathedral) downtown, but we were now above it and could see it even better.

This is just a map at the beginning of the trail.  You can see where we started at the lower left corner red dot.  You can see the tram (the one we did not take) in the middle of the page.  When we got to the top you could climb some very steep stairs to the actual ruins, but we decided we would come back when it is cooler and maybe attempt the stairs.

Munster Freiburg

 A wall along the trail








Almost to the Top.  The flag of Freiburg.

The walk down was much easier, but not real good on the knees.  It was a beautiful sight to see out over all of the city and to get a better idea of how the city is laid out.

August 11 - 17, 2018

Today, Saturday, was another comedy in our home.  We feel like we were called to serve the Young Adults and they have had to take care of us.  When we started our first day with a broken car window, we couldn't imagine it could get any worse.  We definitely have had to change the way we do some things and it is tough to teach an old dog new tricks.

We had enjoyed the day and a few days of cooler weather, YEAH!  I baked bread to take on some visits we wanted to do today.  We picked three people to visit and we found 1 home.  We had a really nice visit and learned a little more about the area and people.  We could not find the other two home, they are away on vacation until next week according to their neighbors.  It was an adventure walking the streets looking for the correct apartment.  It was also fun and we found lots of fruit trees and even a kiwi tree.  I had never seen one before and it was loaded with kiwi.  I hope people are eating our pears back home and even a few pomegranates that are growing.

We talked with some of our family today - it is so nice to have video calls, it makes us seem not so far away.  We were so happy to catch up and to wish Brian and Beth a Happy 8th Anniversary.  We had decided to go get a Pizza for dinner at the corner cafe.  We finished our calls and it was getting late, about 7:30 so we hurried out the door.  As soon as the door closed Russ realized he did not pick up the keys to the apartment.  We were LOCKED OUT!  We are still getting used to this apartment living.  We looked at each other and could not believe another crazy event could be added to our list. 

We tried to see if we could climb from our neighbors balcony to ours because we knew the back doors and windows were open.  It was too far of a reach.  We liked that the neighbors balcony was not too close until now.  We knew that the Bishop keeps an extra key to our apartment in his office just in case this happens.  It saves the Church and us a lot of money to not have to call a locksmith to open doors.  That would mean we would have to tell someone what we did.  They are still laughing about the car window!  We started calling the few people we had numbers for in our phone.  No answer, "I live too far away to help", wrong number, and "Hello".  After 30 minutes of calls we found one of our YSA's who has a key to the Bishop's office who was willing to ride his bike and meet us at the church. He was just getting ready to ride with his fiance' to her home so they made a detour and came to help us.   It is about a 15 minute walk so we started out to meet them.  He said he has had the key for about a year and this was the 4th time he had come and helped a missionary.  We didn't feel so bad knowing we were not the only ones.  We finally made it to pick up pizza at 9:30 pm.  It was really too late to eat, but we ate it anyway and really enjoyed it.  We are really enjoying the food - their cheese is delicious.  We got a Pizza to feed both of us with leftovers for 6 Euro - you can't beat that especially when it is so good.

So, our days continue to be adventures.  We have been humbled many times.  We are learning what it means to be a companion (watching out for each other).  Our Mission Presidents wife had just sent us  a video presentation on being good companions to each other.  We had not watched it together yet.  I think that will be a great Sunday activity and maybe we will start working, thinking, doing better at taking care of each other during all of this.  It is amazing the lessons we have had to learn.
In other words, Linda needs to carry her key with her at all times as well and then we will not get locked out!

After three attempts, we are finally registered (anmeld) to live in the city.  When you enter a city, even if you are from Germany, you have to register with the city.  We were missing our marriage license that was with our VISA papers and had to wait for them to be sent.  They arrived and  we finally got the permit.  Now we get to start the long process of VISA'S.  We hope it will go well.

 Monday we traveled about an hour and a half to a city called Singen for our District meeting.  We took the young Elder's with us and it is always a great experience being with them.  Elder Silva is from Portugal and Elder Batske is from Germany.  It has been very interesting getting to know them and to learn about their families and their lives.  We had an assignment to share a story or time that we felt the blessings of the Lord in our life.  We choose to share the story of Josh serving in Iraq and reading from the scriptures in Ephesians 6 and Alma about putting on the Armour of God before battle.  He would read this before putting on his gear that weighed over 50 pounds and then they would say a prayer as a unit that started being called "A Gunner's Prayer".  We were praying for his safety, but knew he was doing all that he could to be safe and to make the necessary preparations both physically and spiritually to be ready for battle.

 Every Tuesday is PDAY - preparation day.  This week we had a District activity with 8 other missionaries.  We drove about an hour into the Black Forrest for a hike and picnic.  As we were driving we got a call from 2 Missionaries  who were coming from another city and said they got on the wrong bus and ended up at the Swiss border and could we come and get them.  So, we dropped off the Elder's who were with us at the trail head and we drove another 30 minutes to pick up the 2 stranded Elder's.  It was a beautiful drive to get them and we enjoyed it a lot.  We missed the 3 mile hike and were able to drive to the top of the mountain instead.  :)  It was a very steep climb and I was actually glad we  could drive to the summit and park and then have our picnic.  There were lots of trails on top and we took a 45 minute hike that was wonderful.  They have these fantastic portable grills that we took and they light immediately and get coals really fast.  I had pre-made roasted vegetables and made foil packets.  We heated them on the coals along with brats and burgers.  Our Elder's had never seen foil dinners.  They loved them.  We had a feast between everyone bringing food.  I took pineapple with brown sugar to roast and nectarines.  Everyone loved it.  The only thing missing was some ice cream to go on top.  At the top of the mountain is a restaurant and bed and breakfast. 

Our District having fun.

 The afternoon ended with 4 paragliders coming and setting up right in front of us to set sail.  Oh my goodness, it was amazing.  It was actually a marked off course with wind flags and markers for them to know just when to run and take off in the wind.  It was the most amazing experience.  We watched them take off and go into the wind.  Awesome Day!

Picture from the top of the hill looking down on Titisee

We went back to the Refugee Camp and were able to visit the family from our Church.  We were treated much better this time by the security guard.  He didn't even have us show him our Passports (we had them with us this time).  We went to the building we were told and looked all around and could not find the family.  We went to the third floor and asked a lady and she said, "Oh, that's my friend, she lives in Building E.  She went to the open window and called her friend on the phone.  She came to her window and waved so we would know where to go.  Tender Mercies.  We were able to go and visit and get to know them better.  They are from Nigeria.  They lived in Italy for 7 years and while they were in a camp there, they joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.  They came to Germany 3 years ago and are still waiting for their papers to clear.  They cannot work until they have papers.  He is in University taking a German Language course so he can get a job when the legal comes through.  Their two boys go to school and speak really good German.  They cannot leave Freiburg so they are very limited on what they can do.  We want to find some things we can do with them. Blessing, (the mother) speaks her native language, Italian and English.  She does not speak German so she is limited, like me, on what she can do.

On Thursday we went to the Immigration Office to apply for our VISA.  They said we would need to make an appointment and the first appointment is Oct. 8.  He could see we were concerned and said, "Don't worry, it will take about 2 weeks to process after your appointment and if your current VISA runs out, we will just extend it for 3 more months." So the process begins and we will not worry about it for now.

The closest thing to a Texas Longhorn we have found.  This is a bench along the Tram tracks.  I think Fort Worth should have a few of these.


I continue to bake bread and take with us on our visits.  Sometimes we end up eating it because we find no one home.  I am hoping to purchase a Bosch so I can start making Cinnamon Rolls.  We found one today, but did not want to carry it on the Tram.  We will go back with the car.

Russ was invited to go to dinner with a group of men tonight.  It was just down the street from our

home at an Italian Restaurant.  He had a great time and he could not believe how much food and how good it was - his white shirt was covered in little red spots - to prove how much he enjoyed eating it.  He got this big plate and a drink for 8 Euro.  We will plan a date to go back.
There is a large Italian influence here and we love it.  Best of both worlds.  We are only 20 miles from the French border but we do not see much French influence in our town. We see more Swiss influence here.

A fun tradition here in Germany is to fill a cone with treats for your kids for the first day of school.  Like all things, they get bigger and bigger (like a Texas Mum) and it can become a status thing.  I took a picture today of some in a store window.  The ones in the picture are filled with healthy snacks for the students. Fun idea.

So, I end this week with gratitude for this beautiful world we live in.  There is nothing like being in a place that makes you feel you are on the top of the world and can look down like we did on Tuesday.  My body has not been the same from the hiking - shins and calves have been stretched to their limits. So glad I did not walk the 3 mile climb.  Walking has been a little difficult the past few days, but the view was worth it.  We received our first Melaleuca order today.  I am so glad there is a Germany office and I can continue to use these wonderful products.  We cannot get everything, but so glad to have laundry soap, cleaning products, shampoos, and vitamins.  Another comfort from home.

We visit a lady named Amira who is from Lebanon.  She is part Swedish and has lived in Germany for many years.  She joined our church about 15 years ago.  She is home bound because of illness.  She is a delight to visit.  She is so full of love and has many experiences to share from her life before she became ill.  She is only in her late thirties but does not know how long she has to live.  She likes us to read scriptures with her when we visit.  We read in Alma 5 this week - I actually got brave and took my turn and read in German.  I have the English next to it so I could see what I was reading by reading ahead.  It was a good experience for me and good practice.  We talked about Verse 14: "And now behold, I ask of you, my brethren of the church, have ye spiritually been born of God?  Have ye received his image in your countenances?  Have ye experienced this mighty change in your hearts?...And now behold, I say unto you, my brethren, if ye have experienced a change of heart, and if ye have felt to sing the song of redeeming love, I would ask, can ye feel so now?"  
She asked what that verse meant.  We told her she was a great example of the scripture as she had a change of heart 15 years ago when she accepted Christ and was baptized in The Church.  Now, what has she done with that knowledge - she continues to spread love to all who enter her humble home.  I always leave feeling better than when I arrive.  She truly has received Jesus Christ in her countenance.  I am grateful too for this lesson in my life and to know that daily I can invite His Spirit to be with me so that we can go forth and invite others to Come Unto Christ.

Viel Liebe - Much Love,
The Grimmett's

August 3 - August 10

I had written every day this week and went in last night to finish the last paragraph and post and I don't know what happened, but in one keystroke everything that had been saved all week was gone.  I have searched everything I know (that is very little) and cannot find it.  You will be spared the 3 pages of thoughts and pictures.  I know I cannot recreate what was originally written or felt, but I will share some pictures and a few thoughts.  I hope I can get this Blog going better or I will have to use a different way to record my thoughts and events.

 On Tuesday night we went back to the Munster (Cathedral) and attended an organ recital.  We were very surprised to arrive and find it was filled to capacity.  We expected a few people to attend.  It was everything and more than we were expecting.  5 pieces were played and the organ music filled the whole of the cathedral.  I have never heard an organ opened up and so full of sound.  At times it sounded like a whole orchestra was playing and then as simple as a single bell.  The organist received a standing ovation and played one of his most beautiful pieces from memory as the encore. 

This Munster was built in the 1300's and is one of the few in Germany that was not damaged or destroyed.  Only a block away is the site of the Jewish synagogue that was destroyed by fire in 1938 and began the destruction and torment of the Jewish people.  They have a memorial there now as a reflecting pond for people to come and pay their respects. 
The Cathedral has beautiful stain glass windows that can only be seen on the inside.  The outside has protective glass.  There is a large statue of the last supper that is very interesting to see.  I find it interesting that they depict the twelve disciples as old men at the supper when we know they were contemporaries of Jesus and more in their 30's.  I am glad this building has been preserved and protected and continues to be a place of worship.

Jewish Synagogue memorial.  The reflecting pond is in the shape of the original base of the building.  It is a large gathering place for many people.

Six days a week a market is held on the Munster square.  Saturdays are the biggest day.  We went on Saturday and enjoyed walking through and seeing all of the fruit, flowers, cheeses, meats, honey, wax, wood carvings, basket making, candies, chocolate, and other craftsman. 

 We found a shop that made swords from hand carved wood.  We saw designs very similar to the ones made by Joshua Grimmett.  We took pictures as it made us think of him. This is the process he uses, but he takes the wood sword with rope or tape wrapped around like these and then casts a mold and pours a resin sword. 









                                                 Russ holding a Sword!

 Saturday night we celebrated being in Freiburg 1 week by going out to dinner.  We looked on Yelp (Josh Grimmett's favorite sight to find local dining spots when traveling).  We were not disappointed.  We went to the #1 spot listed and it was just off the tourist area and the corner of a main road and a quaint little street. (picture below)  You sit outside at a small table and just enjoy the people as they go by.  Some even stop and say hello.  Fabulous salad and entree'.  We just enjoyed taking it all in and grateful that we had survived our first week.  We did ask for 1 English menu so we could make sure we knew

 what we were ordering.  We are getting better at food.

This is looking the other direction from our table.  This is one of two gates to the city of Freiburg.  The bottom third was built in 1330 and the rest about 200 years later.  The clock works and strikes every 30 minutes. 












Sunday we went to church and we were visiting with the Bishop before the services started.  The organist  was playing beautiful music and suddenly the lights went out and the organ stopped playing.  No one blinked and eye.  The organist just got up and moved to the piano and the Bishop left and went to his seat on the stand.  The only thing missing was the air conditioning - Oh wait - there is no air conditioning in the building so it didn't matter.  We were going to be hot no matter what.  So the meeting went on.  They just asked those who were speaking to speak loud so everyone could hear.  We held all three hours of meetings with no lights.  The internet did not work, but that was OK too.  One man spoke about all of the places he has lived from Africa to several European countries and now Germany.  He said how blessed they were to live here with all of the amenities and necessities of life.  Perspective - it makes you think a little.

Tuesday we had a surprise visit from our Mission President.  That is our normal PDay (preparation day) so we spent the morning shopping for the weeks groceries and other items.  We have been to IKEA and Aldi so I am doing great.  I have actually found a few grocery stores that I like and I enjoy grocery shopping better than any other kind of shopping.  So we were shopping and got a call from Pres. Brown that he was on his way and would be coming to visit.  We had been told we would see him on Friday.  We said, "great, we must have missed the memo."  We invited him to our home instead of the church and that turned out to be a great blessing for all.  Normally he allows about 20 minutes for interviews for each missionary.  We got to be with him for 3 hours and because the Elders were "on a high mountain" and did not get the memo, he waited for them to come back home to come and visit him.  So, we got to go to dinner with him as well.  We took him to our corner Mr. Donner restaurant and it was wonderful.  We had been told it was the best in Freiburg for what they would call "fast food".  We had wanted to go but had not stopped in.  We pass it about 6 times a day.  It was so good.  We had a Yufka (middle eastern wrap).  President could not believe how inexpensive it was and how much food we got.  He said in Switzerland you could only feed 1 for that price.  It was so much food we all brought half of it back home. He said, that is better that buying groceries and that we should eat there often!  So then we had the Elders come to our home and have their interviews.  It was such a nice afternoon and evening and we were truly blessed to have that time with Pres. Brown.  While we were eating he got a text that his daughter-in-law had just gone to the hospital to have her first baby.  He was very excited to have grandchild #3.  You realize the sacrifice he and his wife are making to be gone for 3 years serving the Lord.

Wednesday we went back to the city center looking for Service opportunities.  We visited a catholic charity and we were told they were on vacation until September and to come back then.  That is what we have been told everywhere we go.  So, we went back to the market and got a Longe Rote (long red hot dog).  It is a Freiburg specialty and only available at the market.  It is so long they fold it in half and serve with grilled onions on a bun.  Best hotdog!  It  is hard eating in the heat - not much of an appetite, but it was good.  As least I can say I have had one.

We also went to a Cemetery.  Russ found a volunteer opportunity to drive a shuttle cart to help people get to funerals and to grave sites.  He thought that would be really fun at this big old City Cemetery.  We went and talked to one of the drivers and then walked around.  We decided with me not speaking German it would be hard to be a hostess or a guide.  Russ said we would wait and maybe go back....We did see a headstone with the name of Aue that reminded us of his former boss at American Airlines.  This one is for you Walter:

We walk several miles a day.  Russ loves to ride the tram and the bus.  He does not like to take the car and have to find parking.  So we walk and ride and walk some more.  We tried to visit a member of our Church that lived about a mile from us.  We did not know anything about them.  We walked and walked and came to a gated community - we are talking high security.  We went to the gate and gave them the address we were looking for.  Then we noticed it said it was a refugee camp.  They sent us to another gate where the police were stationed.  They asked for our papers.  We did not have our Passports with us, only our ministerial card.  So they would not let us in.  There was row after row of container houses.  So, we walked back home and said we would try again another day. 

We get up every morning and go for about a two mile walk.  I am still trying to figure that one out as we walk all day long.  I told Russ we need to do a different kind of exercise in the mornings.  We have a stationary bike, yoga mat and weights in our apartment and I am sure we could put them to use to strengthen another part of my body besides my legs!

We ended the day with a celebration of being in Germany 2 weeks today.  We walked and then rode the tram to our favorite Gelato shop for a scoop of gelato.  We have been really good.  We have only gone once a week and it is only 1 Euro for a scoop.  It is next to the University Library and it was beautiful tonight with cooler weather today. (89 instead of 96)

UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

In my studies today, I was challenged to memorize Moroni 10:5, "And by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things." German:  Und durch die Macht des Heiligen Geistes Konnt ihr von allem wissen, ob es wahr ist. 
The book says it should take about 5 minutes.  I have been working on it all day and think I have it and then I have to restudy.  Learning German is the hardest thing I have ever done.  They say it takes 600 hours of study to get a basic speaking ability and about 1000 hours to be proficient.  I have a long way to go.  I do know that we are being blessed and we are starting to know the people and loving them.  That truly makes a difference
I have also been studying the Christlike attribute of Patience this week.  In Romans 8:24-25 it says that Hope is having patience for what we do not know.  I do know that through the power of the Holy Ghost, by asking in prayer, and with patience and diligence and practice, I will come to know more words than I know now. 
Enjoy the weekend!

July 28-August 4, 2018

July 28-August 4, 2018

One week ago today we arrived in Munich after an all night flight.  The flight was an adventure.  Let's just say we really missed American Airlines service and benefits.  We were about 4 rows from the back of the plane in the middle aisle.  I sat by a very nice lady from Wisconsin who was traveling with her son and his family, taking them back to where she was born.  Her father was a German prisoner of war who was taken to Wisconsin.  After the war he was asked to stay in Wisconsin as a worker.  He returned with his family and eventually owned his own cheese factory.  Her brother continues to run that company and she and her husband started a company that builds parts for the machines that make the cheese.  It was very interesting learning from her.  She knows her Cheese!  She shared stories of growing up in Germany and how grateful she is to live in Wisconsin.
About an hour into the flight, just after they had served everyone a beverage and were starting dinner service, the pilot asked the flight attendants'  to take their seats.  Immediately without warning the plane just dropped and started bouncing.  I have flown many times over that route and others and never experienced that.  Needless to say, everyone had full glasses that immediately went everywhere.  Russ had cranberry juice and it went all over him and his white shirt.  It was chaos for a little bit and the flight crew did nothing to help.  Finally, one of the crew responded and brought some paper towels to help those who needed it.  We were very glad to arrive safe and to be on our way.

The Mission Assistants to the President, Elders Hilton and Richardson picked us up in the mission van.  They were so good and gave us a wonderful welcome.  The airport is about 45 minutes from Munich city center and we had a nice drive and tour of the area.  We were taken to the Mission Office and met all of the Mission Office Missionaries.  We had a two hour training and then met the Pres. and Sis. Brown our Mission President.  They took us to an early dinner and a walk through a park.  We had now been up for 24 hours and it was showing.  We were on overload and a lot of information was being given to us.  We went back to the Mission office and were given our new Mission Phone and car.  We drove down the street to a Holiday Inn Hotel.  The President scheduled us for another meeting with the regional YSA representative and he came to our hotel and met with us.  It was so nice meeting him and learning about the young people in this area.  By the time he left I was falling asleep and just wanted to go to bed.  We got to our room around 7 pm and were fast asleep by 8.

                              Pres. & Sis. Brown and Sis. Mecham(our traveling companion)

                                          Park we walked through - surfers on the river rapids

  We were up early and on the road by about 7:30 for our 5 hr. drive to Freiburg.  It was a beautiful drive.  Their summer break from school started on that Saturday, so there was a lot of traffic with people and their travel trailers headed to the lakes and camping.  We were re-routed to a back highway to avoid all of the traffic.  We were so glad because we got to see a lot of the countryside.  You knew you were in Europe when you stop at the rest stop and have to pay to use the toilet.  The reality of being here started to hit and the lack of language skills a little daunting.  We were given an address and were glad for Google maps to get us here.  We arrived in Freiburg and drove to our apartment.

There was a security gate to get in.  How were we going to get in.  We looked at our keys and then Russ parked the car and walked up to the gate.  He got the key fob to work and it opened the gate.  He came back to the car and we drove to the gate.  The key fob would not work.  We tried everything we knew, waving the key like he did before and nothing.  Finally, I said, "I think it won't open because you have not used the fob to go out.  He got out of the car and tried the other side, exit, and sure enough it worked.  We were IN!  We were blessed to have me with Elder and Sister Gasser from Bountiful, UT on Monday night while at the MTC.  They had only been home for 2 weeks from serving in Freiburg and we would be living in the same apartment and taking over where they left off.  They took us to dinner and gave us wonderful information.  We were so glad we had met them.  They told us we would park in #8 and that we lived on the second floor.  That is more than the Mission Office told us.  We drove down into the parking garage and parked in #8.  In Germany, you have -1 for the basement.  0 for the main floor and then 1 for the second floor and so on.  We went up to the 2nd floor and their were 5 apartments.  Two had names on them and 3 had nothing.  We did not know which door was ours.  We looked at the mats and tried to figure it out.  I said, "let's ring the doorbell and if they don't answer we will try our key."  We picked the middle door and there was no answer.  Reluctantly, Russ tried the key and it worked.  We saw a picture of Christ and of the Swiss Temple when we entered and we knew we had found "HOME".  It is a beautiful apartment.  Very new and modern.  It is out of IKEA.  2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with laundry, a nice kitchen, living and dining area.  We have a nice big balcony.  One catch, there is NO AIR CONDITIONING.  There is no air conditioning at the church and at many of the stores.  We have found our car is the best place to be to get cool with the air conditioning.  Thanks to those who were here before us, the kitchen is well equip and even some food in the cupboards.

kitchen

bedroom

We unpacked and got a little settled.  Not hard when you can only bring 2 suitcases with 50 pounds each of belongings.  We then were off to find a grocery store so we could eat on Sunday.  We found my favorite ALDI.  Always nice to find something that is familiar and reminds of home.  The Elder's in our area came over to meet us in the evening and it was great getting to know them.  Elder Batzke from Germany and Elder Silva from Portugal.  It was getting late so we told them we would take them home.  We went to the car and went to drive out of the garage.  To get into the garage you have to put your key in at the top of the driveway and it opens the gate.  To leave the garage you pull on a long blue rope.  Russ rolled down his window, pulled on the rope and said, Yeah! it works.  He began to pull forward and also roll up his window.  All of a sudden the window shattered in thousands of pieces,  We could not figure out what happened.  Then the  Elder said, "The rope got rolled up in the window ".  The pressure of driving away caused it to shatter.  Sounds like something the young missionaries would do,  We had to call the Mission Office and report on our first day!  So, we took the Elders home, went to the store to find plastic and tape - not an easy thing to find when you are new in town and don't know your way around.  We went back to the apartment and cleaned up all of the glass and put in the plastic window.  This made for a late night and a very long day.

broken window

Pull Rope to open door

SUNDAY
We were so glad to attend church on Sunday.  The members were so kind and so happy to have us.  The Elder's forgot to the the Bishop we were coming so they were very surprised we had arrived.  I am glad I at least know how to read German and the pronunciations of the words.  I was able to sing and that was good.  I could not understand the speakers, but I could feel the good spirit.  Russ was trying to get his bearings and understand the dialect of German they speak here.  We were asked to attend the YSA Sunday school class and they were awesome.  Those who could spoke in English and it helped me a lot.  We told about ourselves and they all told us about them.  They then asked me to pray and I was able to do part in German and the rest in English.  They were appreciative I at least tried.  I was so glad it was a 5th Sunday combined meeting for Priesthood and Relief Society and that I could stay with Russ.  After church many people came and introduced themselves.  One Sister came to our car as we were leaving and brought me fresh cut flowers.  They are lilly's and are very pretty.    We were glad to go home and have time to plan out our week and rest.

MONDAY
We went first thing to the Hyundai Dealership to schedule our window repair.  The said they could have the part by the next morning so we scheduled the appointment.  We mapped out our route for taking the bus back home.  We went shopping again for my assignment for Zone Conference that we would be going to on Wednesday in Zurich Switzerland.  It is about a 2 hour drive from here.  I was asked to bring chips, condiments and cookies.  I knew I would not have a car on Tuesday so we shopped and got everything we needed so I could bake.  We were told about Metro, it is kind of like Costco, and so we went and got the membership card in our name and we were able to shop there.  It was huge and a combination Restaurant supply and department store.  We went to Monday night Family Home Evening with the YSA (Young Single Adults).  They have a dinner every Monday and then an activity or lesson.  We had hamburgers and fries and then they said they wanted to show us old town and get gelato.  So, we went walking.  We walked several miles and it was so fun.  They were so great to us and fun to be with.  They took us to the best gelato place in town and it was just like in Italy.  They say Freiburg is the German Italy.  I have had chocolate raspberry and also the next day we went back and I got Mango.  Russ of course had chocolate mint.

Missionaries and Anna

TUESDAY - PDay (preparation day, only day off usually)
We took our car to the dealership and dropped it off.  We found the bus and took it home.  We then walked and walked again and rode the train.  We have been trying to Register with the city (Anmeld) but have had some problems.  They need our marriage certificate and the Mission Office has it.  So we have been to the rathaus (city building) 3 times and still are not registered.  We cannot get our VISA until we are registered with the City.   By night, we are hot, tired and with blisters on our feet.  The cobblestones take some getting used to on your feet.  It doesn't seem to matter what shoes we wear, it is tough on feet.

WEDNESDAY
We were up early and drove to  Zurich.  We picked up the Elder's at 7:30 AM and arrived at 9:30 AM  We had a wonderful Zone Conference with 3 zones and the Mission President.  We received training and also met two other (ehepaar). senior couples, The Lakes and The Adreasons.  We had lunch that the three couples prepared.  We had the best ham, turkey and cheese sandwiches on good German bread.  I made chocolate cookies, ginger snaps and my homemade granola bars.  They could not believe I made them.  It was fun to face the challenge of finding the ingredients and substituting where I could not find things.  It is very hard to find chocolate chips here, but I just bought some good chocolate bars and grated them and it worked perfect.  Baking Soda is found in the drug section and is called Natron.  It was my comfort thing to cook and feel like I could do something.  I just listen and smile a lot right now.  We arrived back home about 7 and were glad to be home and rest.

                                                        Cookies for Zone Conference
THURSDAY
We finally had a day that we did not have any commitments.  I have to say we slept in.  With the heat and all of the walking, it is taking a toll.  We don't eat much as it is too hot to enjoy.  I wish I could say I was getting fit, but so far I don't think I have lost any weight.  We continue to enjoy the sights and to learn more about the area.  We visited a Sister in the Ward today who is home bound because of illness.  She is about 35 years old and has many health problems.  She was so glad to have a visit.  I took her some cookies and we talked and read scriptures with her.  She asked if we would come every week and visit.  She has Persian ancestry with a father from Germany and a mother from Sweden.  She is the only member of the church in her family.  We were happy to visit her.

FRIDAY
Another comfort of home.  IKEA!  We went to a catholic refugee camp to try and volunteer today.  The office was closed until Tuesday so we will try again.  It just happened that Ikea was just down the street.  We found some good things for our apartment and also got some of their good meatballs.  It was just like at home.  They were having a special day with students from a massage school giving free shoulder and had massages so I took advantage of it.  It was great!

So as we come to the end of our first week, we have so much to be grateful for. We arrived safe.  We have been welcomed with open arms and have enjoyed exploring the city.  We have a lot to learn and know that our Father in Heaven will bless us as we are here to do His work.  In 1 Peter 2:21 it says, "For even hereunto were ye called; because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps;"  As the Primary song says, "I am trying to be like Jesus" as we serve and love the people of this area. 

Welcome to Freiburg Germany

It is hard to believe we have finished the first week at the MTC.  It has been an experience that I have never imagined.  We have been very busy and on a schedule every day.  I have had to get used to eating at 7:00 AM, 12:00 noon and 4:30 PM.  We walk a lot and that is good with all of the good food we are eating.  We have learned teaching skills, personal refinement, met wonderful people that have made the same commitment to leave home and family and serve the Lord.  We have studied our scriptures, taught lessons, listened to General Authorities, and attended many devotionals and meetings.  Today we were each given assignments for our church meetings.  I was asked to play the piano for the church services and in Relief Society (meeting for women).  Russ was asked to lead the music in Priesthood meeting (meeting for the men).  One of the Sisters could not be at church and asked me to do her assignment.  I taught a discussion group in Sunday School.  We then had a 3 devotionals with wonderful speakers and musical presentations.  It has truly been a full day.

We had Saturday as a preparation day to visit family, get laundry done, shop, etc.  We were able to go spend time with Emily and her family.  I made cinnamon rolls for my Dad for his 97th Birthday.  We spent Saturday with family, about 80 of us celebrating this remarkable man.  We had a family picture taken and good food and visiting.  A cousin came that we had not seen in about 45 years.

I had acquired tickets to the Mormon Tabernacle Choirs Pioneer Concert for Saturday night.  Emily, Ian, Russ and I went out to dinner and then to the concert.  We were at dinner and were leaving.  As I passed by a table with a family of 4 children and the parents, the young children started yelling and jumping up at down.  I looked to see if I knew them.  I asked, "Did you think I was your Grandma?"  They said no, and were so excited I was talking to them.  Their mother said, "They are so excited to see a missionary."  It was a very touching moment for me.  The realization that the name tag on my chest carries a great responsibility.  I had almost forgotten that it was there.  We had a great visit with them as we explained where we were going.  I hope we are received as well in Germany!
The Concert was absolutely wonderful.  They sang with the guest artists songs from Rogers & Hammerstein musicals.  They ended appropriately with The Sound of Music.

                                                                 The famous Map

                                                     Companion couple - The Barney's

                                                                Language Tutor, Natalie Moto

                                                         District at MTC - friends forever

Letters to my family

I have tried to write weekly to my family in January 2015.  I have been using email, but would like to change over to my Blog.  This will keep a better record of my thoughts and feelings for my children and grandchildren.
I am still learning how all of this works and hopefully can make this a worthwhile effort.

You can see I did not get very far in 2015.  It is now July 18, 2018 and a new chapter of my life has begun.  I am at the Missionary Training Center in Provo, UT preparing to go to the Alpine German Speaking mission.  We have been assigned to serve in Freiburg Germany.  It is a college town in Southwestern Germany close to the French and Swiss borders.  I look forward to documenting the next 18 months through words and pictures.