Week of November 15th

Happy Birthday to Dan and Cortney!!
This week it has been around freezing with mostly rain but some snow. We always take our umbrellas with us because of the fast changing weather. Dad had to get a new umbrella because his broke and I could not fix it this time. On Monday we went on a Maxi run (groceries) with the Evensens and then she had us over for homemade soup. They are great friends and neighbors.
I finished reading the 9th Volume of the Work and the Glory and yes, I shed a few tears when it was over. I am amazed at the strength the pioneers had in crossing the plains and their strong faith and trust in the Lord. The pioneers gave us such great examples to follow.
The visiting group this week at the temple has been from Oslo. They brought one sister with them who was coming for the first time. I was asked to help her as her native language is English. She is from Nigeria and her name is Violet Israel Urang. She is a beautiful and powerful lady and she is certainly filled with the spirit. What a blessing it was to be able to help her with the ordinances. The visiting group from Oslo had their own sessions but it was nice to be able to see these saints again.
On Tuesday we received a new Swedish translation to the temple ordinances. The Swedish language is changing all the time so this new translation brings it closer to the original revelation. The first time I heard the new voices I thought I was listening to a different language. Chuck understood them but it is a challenge for me. New things to learn but it will not take long.
In our Swedish class this week the beginners, my group, talked about phrases we could say to people. I learned that when you have already done something (like bump into someone or sneezed) you would say förlåt mig! But, if you want to say excuse me for something you are going to do (like walk in front of someone) you would say ursäkta mig.
Thursday was wash day and I fixed soup for supper. The Klarin’s brought us some fresh homemade bread and Syster Rudén knocked on our door about 20:00 (8:00pm) and said she would bring us some cake. About 21:20 the doorbell rang again and she stood there and said “no cake” in her very limited English. When I asked her what happened she just smashed her hands together and said “no cake”. I started to laugh and then we both laughed. Friday morning when we opened our door, to go to the temple, there on a plate were two pieces of cake!
Sunday was the Primary Program and the children did such a great job that I am positive that the angels came and helped them. I love these programs and watching the kids give their parts. I could even help them sing in Swedish, when I was not playing the piano!
I did get three of my six dozen dinner rolls made for Thanksgiving dinner that we will have at Pres Oscarson’s house. There are 35 people invited and only 8 of us are Americans!
It has been another busy and interesting week. This is the month of thankfulness and we are very thankful for all our family and friends and so many, many other things. Have a happy, safe and thankful Thanksgiving. We are truly blessed and thankful for all of you.