Link to Africa

Today we went to listen to Elder Geisler's homecoming address.  He served as one of Bailey's companions in Africa.  Bailey loved serving with him and learned so much from him.  It was so much fun to hear about some of his experiences and to spend some time visiting with him about his mission.  We also were able to meet Elders Cannon, Cunningham and Carver.  They, too, served in the same mission.  We learned more about the gospel, people and customs of Africa and enjoyed spending time with each of them.  What a great time!

Brent, Elder Carver, Elder Cannon, Elder Geisler, Elder Cunningham, Colleen

Brent, Elder Geisler, Colleen

It's a Boy

Tonight we attended a baby shower for Jessica.  Everyone was so kind and thoughtful and she received so many nice things for the baby.  Jessica and Jordan leave in just a couple of weeks for Nova Scotia...so even though the baby isn't due to arrive until November, we're trying to get all of the fun preparations done before they take off.

One of the funny moments of the night was when Kayt was saying goodbye.  She had been very excited to come to the party for the baby, but was a little confused that she didn't get to see the baby.  She told her mom that she wanted to see the baby.  KayDee explained that the baby was still in Jessica's tummy.  So, when Kayt jumped on Jessica's lap to give her a kiss goodbye, she quickly pulled out Jessica's shirt and looked down to "see" the baby.  It was helarious!

Jessica, Brent and I spent some time on Tuesday witnessing Angel Moroni being placed on the Brigham City Temple.  We waited in the rain...which actually wasn't too bad because it kept it nice and cool.  There were lots of people there; it was estimated to be a crowd of nearly 5,000.  It was originally scheduled to take place at noon, but due to strong winds, it was delayed.

We went across the street to Ricardo's and ordered some lunch and while we were waiting for our lunch, one of our friends got a text saying that the winds had died down enough and they were going forward.  We told the waitress that we'd be right back...and the funny thing was...everyone else in the restaurant did the very same thing.

One of the construction workers blew an air horn, symbolizing Angel Moroni's trumpet, and away he went.  We are really excited to see the progress of the temple and look forward to its completion.  Each month, our family is participating in a bunch of challenges...we call it the "Shaffer Family Brigham City Temple Challenge."  These challenges are hopefully preparing us to be more spiritually prepared for the opening of the temple.  (Plus...there are monthly motivational prizes given...who doesn't love a prize?)

4th of July...Traditions!

When I think of the 4th of July, I think of traditions.  Each year, our family joins Brent's parents up to Lava for a few days with all of the Shaffer Family.  This year, everyone who lives close enough, came up for some part of the holiday weekend.  The kids love spending time with each other, their cousins and with Grandpa and Grandma.  Our family was excited to discover that the city of Lava has a disc golf course.  They were able to try it out a couple of times during the weekend.