A day when we do simple things often makes for the most happiness. Sunday, December 6, 2009 was just such a day.
It was the second Fast Sunday that the Area Presidency had asked us to observe with prayer for guidance and direction to the government officials in being able to restore security and peace to the country. They asked us to join in prayer that the members would have the desire and ability to be obedient to the commandments in order to be worthy of the blessings they were requesting. Specifically mentioned were increased temple attendance, scripture study, more fervent prayer, fasting, donations, and sharing the Gospel.
We attended our ward and enjoyed the testimonies, the Sunday School class where we studied "The Family: a Proclamation to the World" which the church issued 15 years ago and is so needed now, and the Relief Society lesson taken from the Teachings of Brigham Young on charity and service. The ward is making plates of cookies to take to older, homebound members and asking for donations of "a kilo" of something for a needy family. It truly is the season of love and service, and it is wonderful.
After meetings we helped Sister Sánchez learn how to use her new digital camera to take pictures, then took our presents to her and Sister Soto so they could have Christmasy mugs for their atole each morning and Merry Christmas placemats to use on their table.
The Smiths invited us and the Oropezas to bring potluck and eat together, probably the last fun time we will have together. Enchiladas, rice, agua de sandía, and leftovers from each of our refrigerators made a quick meal. The dessert was also something we had done together--the last of the cheese pie Carmen Hernández showed us how to make last Friday.
We told stories of the biggest Saturday yet at the Temple--over 4,000 ordinances, 3,500 of them baptisms and confirmations yesterday. We reminisced of things we had done in the last year and a half, spoke of our love for each other and how we will miss the times together.