Up and Over and Down

I'm still winding my way through a 23-month mission. As I've inched my way upward, then over the top, and find myself on the downward trek, my life still fills with varied experiences, opportunities, and blessings. We still have our usual gatherings on Sunday night and though they look similar, each grouping takes on its own personality. We prepared to wish Elder Chui well as we sent him back to Hong Kong when his mission ended. His sister and her family came from Utah to see him before he went back to China. It was fun to have them join our Sunday night treats of seasoned french fries and... milk (?) (Missionaries love milk at ANY time!)

We also bid a temporary good-bye to Sister Gong as she transferred to English work, and to Elder Herrenau as he transferred to a different area before he goes home.

Dear Sister Huang, Sister Rounds, Sister Mann

I always enjoy Sister Huang when she comes on exchanges. She brings such light, life, and enthusiasm with her. It's no wonder she's a sister trainer in the mission. Very capable and energetic.

One rainy p-day, the Mascaro's, Sister Martin, and I went to Sylmar in the San Fernando Valley, about 45 minutes away, to a most well-kept secret. It was a museum called the Nethercutt Collection. It had MANY collections, primarily vintage cars, vintage musical instruments, and an assortment of other things so interesting to see. It was all free, which is unheard of in California.  We spent a most enjoyable p-day there, and will definitely take visitors to see this amazing collection.

The beautiful cars were restored to original perfection.

 American Austin (1932)

 Does that sound like someone we know? The biggest difference is that this one is teeny, tiny. Especially for a car!

Here are some beauties! And the cars aren't bad, either!

Sister Martin, Sister Rounds, Sister Mascaro

To me, this looked like perfect wedding transportation.

Of course, one of my all-time favorites...

Old-time fire engine. Way to fight a fire -- in style!!

GRAND SALON, styled in the way they used to authentically design car dealerships. They were serious car salesmen then!!

Grand Staircase, leading to upstairs level of musical paraphernalia collection

There is a sweet love story associated with this collection. It is the passionate brainchild of a couple who were married for over 70 years, and built an empire in a high-end cosmetics business. They also loved collecting. He made sure their special love song was painted on the wall extending from the bottom of the staircase and leading all the way along the wall to the top in gold notes. Very beautiful.

All kinds of beautiful instruments, music boxes, orchestrals, vintage phonograph machines, and figurine collections of instruments adorned the upstairs level. It also included a magnificent pipe organ, which we had the pleasure of hearing in recital.

Very fun day! We enjoyed the collection and our association together.

We also enjoy the association we have with others in Alhambra Ward. These wonderful sisters are so good to invite us to dinner and games. It always feels comfortable to be in a real and inviting, warm home, with people who we enjoy talking, eating, playing games, and laughing with.

So now to continue up, onward, and... oh yes...even downward at this point. And enjoy every single downward step.