Holidays are always a bit hard when we are on a mission.  Here of course , no one celebrates Thanksgiving so all of us Americans were feeling a bit low.  And then our great missionaries made Thanksgiving posters and went out on the streets and asked people what they were thankful for.  It was such a smashing success with some really cute replies that raised everyone’s spirits.  They hung the posters in the lobby and everyone who has come into the church the past few days has written their reply.  What a wonderful boost for everyone.

This morning we went to the temple—what a wonderful place to be on this day of thanks.  One of the young men who attended my temple prep class received his endowment so that made it extra special.There was a young woman in our session who was in a wheelchair and seemed to have MS.  It was so tender to watch her attempt to make the signs and have others dress her and then her husband brought her to the prayer circle and then he received her through the veil.  It was a very moving and sweet experience.  It was a perfect day in the temple and how blessed and happy I felt.

Last week we hosted the other 9 couples serving in this mission, to lunch and some fun in the city.  We prepared lunch at the church and then spent the afternoon at the  Botanical gardens and then a tour of the Opera House.  It is so great to make so many new friends as we serve here in Sydney.

Two weeks ago we got to play tour guides for the Henderson's brother and wife.  We had a wonderful time seeing the sights, beaches and enjoying ice cream on the day of 106* record heat.  But we missed our dear comrades Wileen and Gordon.

Yesterday we had an amazing baptism in our ward with 4 beautiful people baptized.  This picture shows a bit of the worldwide diversity of those baptized and the terrific missionaries that we are privileged to serve with.  The challenge is to keep up with all these new members in the ward, to learn their names and take them into the fold.  Can you tell how much we love our mission!!

We have had some fun and memorable experiences during the past week.  We had a big missionary transfer this past week with 4 leaving and 6 new coming.  So we prepared breakfast on Saturday with all the trimmings.  It takes a bit of food to fill  up these youngsters  but they are so appreciative and we love giving a little pampering.

There was a baptism planned that afternoon at another building as we have no font here.  It is an interesting trip on the train and then a 10 minute walk through a lovely area.  Two girls from China, Alina and Joanna, were baptized and they seem "fully baked" virsus "half baked" as the Bishop often refers to weak converts.  It was a really beautiful baptism with one of our amazing Elders from Beijing speaking.  It often feels like the future of the church in China is happening right here in Sydney.

Following the baptism we returned to the church to set up the Halloween Party.  Our YSA committee planned the best party with such fun games, good chow and great decor.  About 90 people attended and there were some great costumes.  It was such a fun night and we were pleasantly exhausted by days end.

As you can see, serving here is the most rewarding experience.  There is never a dull moment and changes are around every corner.  We hope we can keep up the pace!!