A Few Randoms

 This is a random selection of timely photos.  Starting from the upper right and going clockwise we have a vase that once held a beautiful ballon bouquet.  The bouquet was given to Patty Carter, our beloved friend, who we have been teaching for the past three months.  Needless to say these balloons have seen better days.  You can still see the orange petals (well, if you look closely and use your imagination).  The next visit, I made her a whole new bouquet. When we returned a week later she had put the new in with the wilted old, stating, "I just couldn't bring myself to throw away the old balloons as they brought me so much joy."  So now, she is beginning to fill up her vase with each new bouquet going on top of the dead and dying.  I didn't use the term 'dead and dying' with Peggy as it might hurt her feelings.  So, we just keep loading her up!

The next picture is a selfie of Cathi and I and Elder Gimenez of the Seventy.  He came and taught our mission.  It was a very inspiring experience and my notes are preserved in my journal.  As we exited, he was shaking our hands and being presumptuous we asked if we could take a selfy.  He was not only agreeable but enthusiastic.  Thank you Elder Gimenez!

The next is our first experience with the Chicago cold and snow!  Here is Foster (our Honda Fit) obediently awaiting our return from teaching.  Front wheel drive makes driving this little vehicle a dream in the snow.

Lastly this is a picture of our current District.  Every transfer we have lunch at our house so we can get to know and welcome the new missionaries.  The new ones here are Elder Bingham (brand new from Idaho, second from left) and Elder Irons (a seasoned Elder, also from Idaho, fourth from the left.)  Welcome to the Lake Shore 2 District and Taco Salad Niven Style!  You will notice our Glory Wall of pictures behind us.  Cathi takes picture and sticks them to the wall.  She did this on our last mission and she created quite a display.  And just like the last mission, all the missionaries who visit have to see who is on our wall, our activities, and whether they themselves have been chosen for posting!