OCTOBER and NOVEMBER 2014

For the past two months we wanted to concentrate on the last and most trying part of the journey to Zion by the handcart pioneers in the Willie and the Martin handcart companies. 

 

This is because this year, 2014, the days of the week correspond exactly to those in 1856. 

 

Each morning we read the accounts of both companies on each corresponding day as they struggled through cold, snow, icy rivers, wind, and the deaths of many of their loved ones to get to Zion. 

 

However, the months of October and November were actually wonderful for us here at Martin's Cove.  The weather was mild and warm in October, inviting 35% more visitors here than during October of last year.

 

Our little group of 10 winter missionaries welcomed them here, although there were some days it was so busy we could have used the help of 5 more couples!

 

We had many, many school groups come to visit - even well into November.

 

Steve Sun and his family came to visit, and it was delightful to talk to them and hear stories from his years growing up here on the Sun Ranch.

 

Each time we took visitors out to see Martin's Cove we were amazed by the large herds of antelope and deer.

 

On a P-Day we actually went to Ayres Natural Bridge, a beautiful place we tried to visit back in March, but the entrance wasn't open then.

 

On our way home we stopped in the lovely little town of Glenrock and appreciated the street post decorations on Main Street. 

 

We've had glorious sunrises

seen through Devil's Gate. . .

 

. . . and flaming sunsets that filled the whole sky.

 

We were able to slip down to Salt Lake to listen to our oldest grandson speak in Sacrament Meeting prior to serving in the Ecuador Guayaquil South Mission.  In this picture he is wearing the same jacket his father (who died 10 years ago) wore in his mission picture.  We also had the special treat of attending an early morning temple session with him.

 

Thanksgiving is always a meaningful time, especially for missionaries. 

 

We are grateful for our supportive family and friends, and especially for the opportunity to serve the Lord in the "Hastening of the Gathering" and as part of 88,000+ missionaries - the greatest missionary force EVER in the history of the world!