Hard to Say Goodbye!

I cannot begin to explain how difficult it's been this month to say goodbye to the people I've grown to love on this mission!  It's been a tearful time for me as I realize there are many here I will never see again.  I've done a lot of work with those who are sick or in nursing homes.  My memories of them will always be treasured, and I can only hope to see them again in the eternities!  Sister Helena Lawson, Roberta Adams, and Theresa Alarcon where our nursing home sisters. They've touched my life with their love, faith, and happiness; in spite of the hard times they're experiencing.

The ward members have been very supportive, and cared for us in so many ways.  I think I've gained 10 pounds just this past month as we've been invited to many dinners and parties before we leave.  Sis. Joyce Richmond is a ward member who has had us over many times.  She and her husband are in their 80's, but are ward missionaries and very involved in the missionary effort.  I think they have other callings in the ward as well.  She had us over for a small luncheon with a few sisters in the ward to say goodbye.  She's a marvelous cook, mother, wife and grandmother AND sister in the gospel.

We were invited to Bishop & Sis. Lucero's home for dinner on a Saturday evening before we left.  When we walked in we were surprised with a huge party open house, that included all three wards we've served in!  All three bishops were there, the stake president, relief society presidents and many ward members.  We were told at the end of the evening that someone had counted about 90 people!  It was so much fun enjoying a wonderful dinner and evening with our friends!  It was very emotional as I went around talking with everyone.  I've been so blessed to be able to work with these people and find such loving and caring brothers and sisters.  I'm excited to go home to my family, but will miss this so much!  Marjean, the Lucero's & Allan Bird put it all together and received help from many others.


I was so surprised when I went in that all I could do was stand there and cry!  Allan Bird and Bert Dixon did an amazing BBQ.  The reception table had a book for each of us that everyone signed, and of course, Texas cookies!  Our sweet missionary sisters gave us each a beautiful book "Women of the Old Testament." Marjean decided to pretend to be a missionary.  She definitely qualifies as she's served us with such love and warmth!

                                                                                           

                                                                               

Even after this wonderful surprise party, there were still more surprises to come!  Bro. & Sis. DeMille in the 3rd ward were called to be missionaries to the adult singles over 60.  They've been meeting once a month for FHE.  We have supported this effort as we've encouraged the single sisters to come and helped with their transportation.

The last meeting we had ended up also being a surprise party arranged by Allan Bird & Marjean (again).  Can't begin to express how much love these wonderful people in Texas have for each other and everyone!  Top left:  Sis. Smith, Sis. Putnam, Diana York, Jim Tryand, Ruben Villareal, Allan Bird, Julia Bell, Karen Wood, Marjean Nielson Front row:  Me, Sis. Hulse & a visit from Sis. Campbell  Bottom:  Allan Bird.