December Gifts

 

 

This month marked our one year anniversary in the mission field.  At this time we would like to share with our family and friends some of the gifts we have received.

 

Gift # 1  -  The Gift of our Savior.

 

Gift #2 - The Gift of Service - What a blessing it has been to lay aside the cares of the world and dedicate ourselves full time to the service of the Lord. We could not do that without the love and support of our family.  As we have served in the New York Utica Mission office, we have daily association with wonderful Elders and Sisters who are likewise dedicating their time and effort to bring others unto Christ. We find ourselves united in this effort. We have been involved in serving and training the missionaries as they "hasten" this great work.

December Special Training
 

Gift #3 - The Gift of Love - We testify that we have a kind Heavenly Father that loves us. He is mindful of us and his greatest desire is to have us return to Him as families. Recently Elder Haddock returned home to his family after
successfully completing his time here in the NY Utica Mission. It wasn't until after Elder Haddock left last month that we read an article about his adopted brother who is currently serving in the Bulgaria Mission. His brother was abandoned as a baby in Bulgaria. Elder Haddock's parents adopted him when he was three and brought him to America. He returned to Bulgaria last year as a missionary and special witness of Jesus Christ. What happened next is a true miracle. We invite you to read the article at http://www.ldsmag.com/article/1/13678

Gift # 4 - The Gift of Friends - Although we miss our friends at home, we have made new friends who have greatly enriched our lives. We will forever be changed by their generosity and love.

Office couple NY

 Gift # 5 - The Gift of Family - We were able to connect with our family this Christmas via "Face-Time". We are grateful for the advances in technology that make it possible to remain connected. Our grandchildren are quickly growing up and turning into wonderful, giving and talented individuals. Tara (17) has received several acceptance letters from several colleges and even received an academic scholarship from one. Below is a picture of Isaac giving service. This was posted on facebook by Brittany Bartholomew who is in Isaac's ward. It said, "Isaac, one of our favorite babysitters, saw that Lexi was cold and tired/a little grouchy at the ward breakfast this morning. He came over and sat by her (he didn't have a chair) and shares his music with her and talked to her about what she was going to ask Santa for Christmas, then when Santa came, took her to the line and waited with her until it was her turn to sit on Santa's lap. So impressed with this awesome guy."


Isaac and friend, Lex

Don & Claudia on 6th mission to Brazil



William's Family celebrating a Shepherds Christmas



The Colorado families (Arnett's, Gover's & McKinnon's) Supporting each other and the Barlow family with newest member, Tessa Joy.





 

 

Finally we have the Gift of a New Year. We wish you all a very blessed New Year.