We were able to view conference the last two weeks.  Because of the time difference between NZ and the USA, the wards delay conference weekend until the week after General Conference.  The senior missionaries watched the two Saturday sessions two weeks ago, and last Sunday we viewed the Sunday sessions.  One of my favorite talks was from a native Australian, Elder Terrence Vinson.  He spoke of the importance of being committed----to be as they say in Australia, "fair dinkum" about living the gospel.  People are fair dinkum when they are what they say they are.  I looked up the meaning and origin of the phrase "fair dinkum".  It means a fair day's work.  The work dinkum was coined on the Australian gold fields.  It comes from one of the Chinese dialects widely spoken at the diggings.  Din Kum means "true gold".  For me, it means total committment.

In Sister M. Craig's talk, she said that we all have unique missions and roles to perform in life and we will be given unique guidance to fulfill those roles.  Nephi, the brother of Jared (both from the Book of Mormon), and Moses (from the Bible) all had a large body of water to cross----and each did it differently.  Each received personalized direction and each trusted and acted.  In Nephi 3:7, it states that the Lord ..."will prepare a way", not the way.  We come in many shapes and sizes, but "all are alike unto God".  There are many different ways to use our various talents to fulfill the same purpose. 

Elder Folland is developing quite the reputation as an amazing baker.  He had a sour dough start back home that he used regularly for baking bread, making pancakes, and other goodies.  Here in NZ, we discovered a great sourdough bakery, and they gave Doug a start.  He has been perfecting the technique to get consistent results.  His bread is so good!  It has become our calling card to get to know people.  He made blueberry scones this morning, and I added a sour cream, almond, and pecan glazed topping.  They were so yummy!  There is a picture on our blog!

We were able to get out for a nice hike yesterday afternoon and a nice walk in the Arboretum this afternoon.  Being out in nature is so rejuvenating after spending our time in an office setting during the week.

Our missionary diagnosed with cancer is doing so well with his treatments!  Thank you all for including him in your prayers.  He returned home to England today to continue his treatments.  He has experienced miracles!!  We are grateful to have known him and served with him.  We wish him well!

We are so blessed with wonderful family, extended family, great friends, and many good things!  We love you all!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

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