It feels like Christmas here with all the snow and ice. Its beautiful to look at but hazardous to walk around. Three missionaries have fallen on the ice, so everyone is being a lot more cautious. All the wards in the stake back here were cancelled today, but not the site and temple missions. Since we aren't part of the stake or in a ward our mission decided to hold all the regular meetings. You should have seen all the old elders and sisters getting into the chapel. Slow and steady but so worried about falling or slipping on the ice.
Our sacrament Christmas program was so special that I'm glad it wasn't canceled. The site choir sang three beautiful numbers and Pres. and Sister Gilliland [site president] spoke and of course their talks were wonderful. I love the Christmas hymns, and special musical numbers.
Rudi was assigned to teach the Sunday School lesson today. He did fantastic, and even shocked himself at how easy it was. Everyone complimented him and said it was very interesting. His topic was "Being good citizens". He related things from his fathers experiences living in Germany. There was a lot a class participation and interest in the topic. Ron Hawkins, once again you would have been proud of him. I'm suppose to teach next week. I'm scared to death. Too many former stake presidents, bishops, mission presidents etc. in the class. Maybe it will snow even more and get more icy and they'll call church off! My lesson is on the Family Proclamation. Hopefully there will be a lot of comments.
I can't believe Christmas is almost here. Yesterday we had a little disaster in our cottage. Rudi was vacuuming and accidentally sucked up the skirt of the Christmas tree. It was a mess, tree and ornaments everywhere. Traci I'm sorry but I had to redecorate the tree. Not fun but I finally got it put back together, somewhat. Its not as perfect as when you decorated it.
Last Monday night we went to Pres. Rowtoski's for a missionary Christmas get together. We had so much fun. Food, games, and laughter who needs anything else for a party.
This week in the temple we had two marriages. It's so neat to see the beautiful brides in their dresses and long flowing capes to keep themselves warm. I wish when my grandkids get married they might like to come to Nauvoo. I know I won't still be here but it would still be so special. The brides room is real small but so beautiful. I really don't care where they get married as long as it is in a temple!
Our prayer meetings are so spiritual and really help me get ready to serve. Yesterday I led the music for the first time since we came. It's good to feel needed. I love these people and they seem to love us. It looked like a group of angels all dressed in white singing Hark the Herald Angels Sing, as I led the music. I felt almost like I was in heaven enjoying the celestial choir.
Today we were invited to dinner at the Hullinger's across the street. He's the 2nd counselor in the temple presidency. It was so good and fun to get to know them better. The Gorrell's were also there. We know them pretty good because they serve on the social committee with us. I had to take dessert so I made fudge mint brownies. They loved them. Once again where is my family to eat the brownies that are left?
This week we have four days off because of Christmas. Sunday thru Wednesday. I know we're spoiled but we do as we are told, the temple is closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. More free time to socialize!
Tomorrow we're going to Burlington to grocery shop and catch a movie and dinner. We might invite a couple to go with us.
Well family and friends before I close I want to wish you all the merriest of Christmas's. We'll miss being there for Christmas but know that you'll keep up traditions. Rudi and I are so happy serving here in Nauvoo and feel your love and support. We know that our Father in Heaven is watching over all of you and especially us. We're so grateful for this wonderful opportunity to serve and grow in the gospel. We feel our Saviors love daily and especially at this season of His birth. Stay close to your families and The Lord.
Remember that the temple is where our eternal happiness is sealed forever. We recommend that all who can go to the temple and enjoy the true meaning of happiness do so.
We love you all, and your emails!
Rudi and Kathy
Elder and Sister
Grandpa and Grandma
P.S. No sweet husband today, just a bad husband for messing up the Christmas tree. Just goes to show that a man can't be sweet two weeks in a row. What can I do to be called a sweet husband again? We are just loving this place very much.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO JOESPH SMITH, December 23rd. Joseph and Hyrum statute in front of the Nauvoo Temple covered in snow.
Wilford Woodruff home decorated and covered in snow.
Beautiful Nauvoo Temple during a snowstorm. It doesn't loo as white with all the snow on the ground.
Enjoying the winter wonderland.
Nauvoo Temple decorated for the holidays. So charming and inviting.
Nauvoo Temple at night with a full moon.
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