April 2015

We had another wonderful month in the mission.  With the improved weather, we are enjoying our work as missionaries even more.  It was nice to see the country without snow completely covering it – green has replaced it!  Our work routines continued to be the same but we did have a break to make a quick trip to Colorado where Jim was recognized by the Department of Agricultural Resource Economics as an inductee into their Hall of Fame.  Jim was totally surprised by the fact that both Brian and Michelle came with their children to be a part of the festivities (along with a few other family members).  When that was over, it was back to New York and the mission responsibilities, which we have come to love. 

Right after our return to New York we learned that the University of Arizona Alumni Association had also selected Jim to receive the Swede Johnson award for his work with students.  Therefore, we made another quick trip, this time to Arizona to receive the recognition.  Then it was back to New York for much more important work.

During the month, we traveled to Hermon, a little town about 25 miles from Ogdensburg where we have a number of members.  We try to get there about once or twice a month.  We also found ourselves going to Gouverneur several times where we are involved with members and investigators (people who are interested in learning more about the church) as well. 

It was a great month and as the month “screamed” by, the weather got better and we just continued to develop a love for the people we serve.  We have especially enjoyed the work with the full-time missionaries, who are terrific.

Shel's Note: Mom sends lots of pictures of her "critters" - I'm thinking she misses her dog, Sugie. (see below) 

HAWKS! Sugie would be running for cover if she'd gone with them!