FATHER'S DAY 2011

Elder Bird with Malaya Branch Father's Day gift ties

Elder Bird with Primary children of Malaya Branch

Father's Day was different for us here in the mission field. We have always had some of our family around us. It was a special day, though, to be out serving the Lord, and reflecting more while celebrating less. The tender mercy was that the drive to Malaya was actually pleasant, even for the one driving. A light but continual rain was falling, thus there were less people out and about. The foilage is so beautiful and plush. There were about 60 members and investigators in attendance. It was the first Sunday that the heat was not an issue. A nice little breeze blew right through the building. The primary children had had an activity the day before, and made ties for all of the fathers. There were more ties than fathers, so each had several to wear!! Then they all sang to the fathers. It was very sweet. We are starting to know more of their names. The young boys (8-12 yrs.)started saluting Elder Bird last week, because they think he looks like a military officer. He is so nice and fun with all of them. When we returned home, we had roast beef (from Australia) with mashed potatoes, fruit salad, and rolls (no, not home made or Rhodes)and since I always make him an apple pie for Father's Day....I purchased an apple turnover from McDonalds on Saturday!! Hey, it worked!! We are very grateful for all of the fathers in our lives....my husband and father of our children, our earthly fathers, our 6 sons that are the fathers of our 25 grandchildren, and most of all, our Heavenly Father and our Savior, Jesus Christ.