Still going the ROUNDS...

Still working on Sister Gong's bicycle riding skill, but it does wonders for her when the others get involved in the holding capacity and cheering section.  Even if it doesn't make her ride any better, at least she feels supported.  And that's a LOT to a sister who's misplaced in another country, and the cheering section is made of mostly elders.  Male elders.






The days at ERS are much busier, now that I have a little better idea what I'm doing.  I feel I can be a little more help, and I'm looking forward to the days when I'm SO confident that I'll rely on inspired help, rather than working so hard on trying to get the mechanics down.  I'm still learning a lot and I'm constantly asking poor Sis.Thurgood questions but in her usual, patient way, she responds with a very logical answer and right away.  Because our little front receptionist is gone to a different job now, I'm also the receptionist. Whoooo-ah!!  Gotta check my phone/PR skills, man!  It's a whole new world for me!

We adopt the Jacob Lake tradition of Sunday night treats, but only occasionally, I'm afraid.  We had cinnamon rolls one night which were devoured, and Sis Thurgood made delicious apple cobbler another Sunday night, also devoured.

We went after church one Sunday to take photos at the Alhambra arch, a city icon.

And always the companionship photo ops.

Check out the awesome natural, no-fuss, wild and ferocious locks on that girl! Still trying to figure out what hairdo works best in California climate.

We've had some fun p-days too.  We went to the LA temple again one morning and to Santa Monica Pier in the afternoon.  The beach stretches for miles and is also really deep.  So deep that the pier built on the beach, stretching out into the ocean has amusement rides and games all up and down on it.  Food to eat, musicians, games, rides, restaurants... you name it.  It reminds me of Pinocchio's adventure.

If it seems like I have one p-day outfit, it's the truth.  I didn't know I needed to come prepared with play clothes.  The roller coaster is behind me on the pier.  The kids would love it!

We also spent a p-day at the J.P. Getty villa and research center, all about art.  Very eccentric, and very artsy.  Just saying.

                           Also very lovely and refreshing, high above the ocean, we can look way out over it.

             And finally, high above a sliver of LA from the Getty Art Center, it's all very high and lots to see.

The over-arching events of this past few weeks have centered around the  passing of my amazing brother-in-law, Blayne.  It gave me a new appreciation for family ties that bind.  I felt quite lonely during the ordeal of his passing and subsequent funeral.  I missed family and home so much more during this time, I guess because I was feeling detached from it and I felt like I wanted to wrap up in the comfort of my family, both immediate and extended.  Another new adjustment in a mission, and one I hope not to have to repeat in any form.  I leaned a lot on Heavenly Father and had many thoughts about the joyous reunion in heaven with Arlyn, Blayne, and their dad.  Chances are, they are turning heaven upside down, the dynamic trio they must make!  That is one of the comforting thoughts attending this event.  Even Blayne recognized God's Plan for each of us is always and ever greater than our own.  A truly great man who will be greatly missed!

So... still going the rounds...