I had a great experience Saturday when I attended a quilt tying morning with the Relief Society sisters of the Mission second ward. The Stake RS had asked the wards to provide a number of baby quilts for an orphanage in Mexico. I don't very often have the time to participate with the wards as so many of our meetings conflict with theirs, but this time it was possible. I also played the organ in Sacrament meeting today for this ward and really enjoy their sweet spirit.

We didn't have many people come in this week but then we only had 3 days to really be opened. Monday the parking lot had to be closed for a 24 hour period so the church property can't be considered public domain so we parked across the street at a member's home. Friday we had Missionary apartment inspections and with 10 to do now, it takes most of the work day. I gave a few demonstrations on how to clean toliets and tubs and hope we see an improvement next time.
Tuesday evening we met with Bishop Smith, Brother Shipp, the YM's president, and Sister Chandler, the YW's president in our orientation meeting and had a great discussion. They felt that they had been enlightened on their role in the employment resource and we feel it was a good experience. That finishes up training on that stake. We met with the other Stake leaders today and feel positive about being able to do the same with them. I have to keep reminding myself that it take time and to be patient! Thursday evening we met with Bro. Guerra, High Councilman of the other stake, and felt good about his desire to make this all work. Then we traveled to Edinburg so I could play for the Institute choir that is practicing some christmas music. I don't have all the detail as to where and when they will be singing, so I hope it will work out with out schedule. They are a great group of young people and it was good to feel of their enthusiasm. A few late nights for this old missionary couple but the Lord sustains us and we keep pressing forward.

The Missionary resumes are done and after transfers this week I will need to get the next batch of pre-resume papers out to the missionaries going home in December. We are sure we will lose one or more of our sister missionaries that we have gotten close to, but then it will give us an opportunity to get more acquainted with others. Baptisms continue to take place and it is great to hear the missionaries talk about their investigators. It is wonderful to know this is going on all over the world and to be a part of it in some small way. I love the gospel and appreciate this opportunity to express that love in whatever way I can.

Have a meeting and another choir practice tonight so I've gotta run!

With love,
Los Averys