The seniors did a service sewing project for the mission Christmas party. We decided to make 150 drawstring bags for their linen and blankets. We had fun buying African fabric prints in the CBD (Central Business District). We got a real deal 6 yards for $3.50. We all helped to cut them out and Sister Turley and I sewed them together. Even Bruce helped by burning the cord ends on our gas stove so they wouldn't fray. I spent several hours sewing 84 bags. We had borrowed a stake sewing machine but the tension and stitch were off and it was too frustrating to sew with it. The single sisters went in and bought a new sewing machine for $250.00. It was better than the other one but definitely not a Bernina or Pfaff! We are excited to give these bright African print bags to the young missionaries at their district Christmas parties.
Sister Turley and Bodell were very sweet to invite us over for dinner on Sunday. They wanted to have us before we left for home in just 10 more days! It was very kind and we played "Rook" afterward until the Christmas Caroling at Judd's. We also took these photos of the bags we finished sewing.
Sunday, Dec. 3rd, the Judds invited all the senior missionaries and mission presidency over to their home for snacks and to sing Christmas carols. Sister Nancy Turley played the piano as we all gathered around. Bruce was able to get Sister Judd to sing a requested solo. She sang a beautiful melody of "Silent Night" with the voice of an angel. She has a beautiful soprano voice. We sang requested carols and shared favorite memories they sparked. It was a nice gathering. Sister Judd gave a beautiful prayer and blessing at the end of the night. She blessed our families with forgiveness and healing. It was exactly what we needed to hear and tears were shed. She also told us that last year during Christmas she was very homesick. The Spirit spoke to her mind to concentrate on "what is" not on "what is not." This was also very profound advice for us. We are so excited but also a bit hesitant about going home for Christmas and leaving Zimbabwe for 4 weeks. We are very blessed to be able to make the trip and see our granddaughter, Ruth, be baptized in Virginia. We really are so excited to see the kids and grandchildren. I have an entire 50 lb. suitcase packed with African Christmas gifts!
Friday, Sister Turley came to the temple Visitor Center to teach Richwell his first piano lesson. He was so excited and I caught him practicing his notes the following Monday. He is very musical and has recorded some "Zim Dance Hall" music he wrote.
No comments:
Post a Comment