Sunday, December 28, 2008

OUR MISSIONARY FAREWELL

Today was our farewell. I couldn't believe I was standing at the pulpit actually speaking. It felt like I was talking at my own funeral. Of course I had to cry all the way through my talk. I started crying during the opening song when we sang "There is no peace on earth I said, for hate is strong and mocks the song of peace on earth, goodwill to men. Then pealed the bells more loud and sweet, God is not dead nor doth he sleep....." I totally lost it there. My talk was about how the Good Shepherd knows his sheep and we know his voice. Tim gave a great talk on "Our Savior, our friend". It felt so good when the meeting was over. We had a lot of family and friends who came to the house to eat afterwards. There were probably around 50 or so. We had tons of food left over. We had Carolyn & John Everton, Judy Robertson, Spence and Pat Ericksen and Mike and Rosalie Taylor drop by to say goodbye. Now we have this week to get the house cleaned and our bags packed for the MTC. It has been a very busy month. We are very tired but have enjoyed each event that has taken place.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful farewell that must have been! We anxiously await your arrival and could not be more excited to have you join us. What a joy to have two who are so tremendously talented, so seasoned in church service and rich in testimony. Your reputation precedes you! We know somewhat of your sacrifice and express our love and admiration to you and yours. Thank you!

Season's Greetings from South Florida ... where it's just another sunny day with temperatures in the mid 70's.

Much love,

Nathan Hale, Mission President
Florida Ft. Lauderdale Mission

HappyHoldstocks said...

You two did a wonderful job. The talks, food, and company were great. Hope you are feeling better.

the happyhowards said...

Now wait just a minute!!!! Who are the Happy Holdstocks??? That is our line.

Wish we could have been there for your specal day. But how special is that for your Mission President to be reading your blog???

Rea Rader said...

Hey, it was good to talk to you for a minute yesterday, Janet. I'm sure you are relieved to have your talks over with, but save your notes, you might be called on to speak again sometime. :)

LOVED that your mission pres. responded. . . but who are those guys in CA who think they can have a corner on happiness???? (JK, Howards)

Anyway, we love you and will pray that you get across the country with no weather or auto surprises. MUCH love, Auntie R